NEW WAVE
TOP 50 CREATIVES
2024
THE COMMITTEE
Our committee comprises distinguished leaders, innovators, and tastemakers from various creative industries who bring their unique perspectives and invaluable expertise to this prestigious selection process. Each member has made significant contributions to their respective fields, shaping trends and elevating creativity to new heights. From celebrated designers and visionary directors to cultural curators and groundbreaking artists, their collective wisdom ensures this year’s selection reflects the most dynamic and inspiring voices of the creative world.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our committee members for their dedication, time, and thoughtful insights. Their commitment to excellence has helped us identify the most promising and influential creatives who are shaping the future. This collaboration is a testament to the power of community in celebrating talent and innovation.
2024 COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Brand & Marketing Strategist Jojo Vandalkidd, Art Director Jade Adeyemi, Dazed Editorial Director Kacion Mayers, New Currency Founder & DJ Kazeem Kuteyi, Places + Faces Co-Founder & Photographer Soulz, Stylist & Fashion Director Ignacio De Tiedra, Artisan Alone Founder & Designer Ademide Udoma, Sondr Co-founder & Talent Manager Emma Helm, Film & Commercial Director Duncan Loudon, Take More Photos Founder Hassan Gazali, Dazed Studio Producer Jessica Rushforth, Boiler Room Creative Manager Harriet Russell
TOP 50 LIST
YISKID
Photographer
Yiskid is a visionary photographer recognized for his captivating work in fashion and cultural photography. In 2024, he continued to make waves with prominent collaborations, including his cover story for Highsnobiety with Rosalía, showcasing his distinctive floating aesthetic. Yiskid’s photography often features subjects seemingly suspended in space, creating an ethereal, otherworldly quality. This “floating” effect amplifies the emotional intensity of his work, allowing his subjects to convey a sense of detachment while remaining deeply intimate. His portfolio also includes notable features in Dazed and Another Man China. Yiskid’s photography is a blend of bold compositions, cinematic tones, and a nuanced exploration of identity
IGOR PJORRT
Photographer
Igor Pjörrt is a talented photographer known for his editorial photography. His signature style blends striking visual storytelling with bold compositions. In 2024, Igor’s portfolio includes collaborations with renowned brands such as Mowalola for both the DIRTY POP and CRASH 24 lookbooks, as well as Ludovic de Saint Sernin for their Spring/Summer 2024 campaign. His work has also been featured in Carcy Magazine for its editorial and covers. With a growing list of influential clients, Pjörrt continues to push boundaries in the visual arts
ELLIOT HENSFORD
Photographer
Elliot Hensford is a photographer and creative director from Southampton, UK. Starting out in the music industry Hensford over the last 24 months has pivoted into a career in fashion and editorial working to highlight black excellence and beauty. Elliot this year has worked alongside the likes of Central Cee, Doechii & Wizkid aswell as shooting covers for Numero , NME & Outlander magazine.
MANU LOCA
Movement Director
Born and raised in the French Caribbean, Manu Loca is a multidisciplinary creative whose work delves into human expression, capturing emotions, vulnerability, and body language. Informed by her rich cultural heritage, storytelling is central to her practice, often blending an anthropological lens with cinematic visuals. Through her photography and movement-based fashion work, Manu focuses on themes of identity and representation, creating narratives that connect deeply with audiences.
Her portfolio includes collaborations with Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Dazed, Vogue, GQ, Bose, Universal Music, Little Simz, and Wizkid. Additionally, her art has been featured in numerous exhibitions across the UK and Europe, solidifying her reputation as a visionary artist.
SEYE ISIKALU
Photographer
Seye Isikalu is a London-based photographer and filmmaker known for his striking work that celebrates Black beauty, culture, and identity. Born to Nigerian parents and raised in London, his creative vision blends the influences of both cultures, offering a unique perspective that combines personal experience, nostalgia, and social commentary.
With a portfolio that includes clients such as Harrods, The British Fashion Council, Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, A24, The BBC, Puma and Paramount, Seye’s work has garnered recognition across the worlds of fashion, film, and media.
DAVID GILLERS
Make Up Artist
Latvian-born David Gillers brought his creative spirit to London in his early twenties, blending his Slavic heritage with influences from subcultures, anime, and avant-garde fashion. Known for his bold and alluring artistry, David redefines beauty with a subversive touch. This year, he keyed shows for HARRI and LEO PROTHMANN at London Fashion Week, contributed to three stories for Spring Studios’ Ode Magazine, and landed a cover for Love Want featuring supermodel Lulu Wood. David continues to push the boundaries of beauty, making fashion fun, sexy, fierce, and delightfully weird, all while leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
MARI KUNO
Make Up Artist
Mari Kuno, born and raised in Nagoya, Japan, discovered her passion for arts and fashion at an early age. At 15, she attended a fashion-focused high school, where she delved into design, sewing, and fashion history, while also exploring the connection between fashion and makeup. After graduation, Mari moved to Tokyo to study makeup and gained industry experience as an assistant. Seeking further growth, she relocated to London in 2018, working on shows and shoots across Europe. In 2023, she signed with Saint Luke Artists, marking a significant milestone in her career. Mari continues to refine her craft and expand her creative journey, contributing to the fashion and beauty industries with her unique vision.
JACQUELINE EZEUKO
Hairstylist
Jacqueline’s first year in the industry has seen a ranged of achievements, know for her inventive and colourful custom wigs her work has been featured in editorials with King Kong, Latest, Glamcult and Metal Magazine. Working with big names in high fashion and commercial such as Mowalola, 1xblue and Lazy Oaf. Employed by artist like Chi, Biig Piig, and Bambii Jacqueline is building a clientele in the music video scene, drawn to her catalogue of wigs and ability to create conceptual looks. September fashion week saw her biggest achievement yet, key hair for Jawara Allaeyen SS25 runway show leading a team of 8 talented stylist!
Her portfolio includes collaborations with Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Dazed, Vogue, GQ, Bose, Universal Music, Little Simz, and Wizkid. Additionally, her art has been featured in numerous exhibitions across the UK and Europe, solidifying her reputation as a visionary artist.
AMIDAT GIWA
Hairstylist
Amidat Giwa is a celebrated hair stylist whose work continues to make waves in the fashion industry in 2024. Known for her creative and versatile approach, she contributed to high-profile campaigns such as Gucci’s Horsebit 1953 Loafer campaign, featuring Kingsley Ben-Adir and directed by Emanuele Cantò. Amidat also styled hair for Net-a-Porter x The Row’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, showcasing her ability to elevate minimalist aesthetics with her skillful techniques. Her artistry blends seamlessly with both luxury and contemporary brands, earning her recognition in global campaigns and editorial projects
TOLU COKER
Fashion Designer
Tolu Coker is a British-Nigerian Fashion Designer and Multi-Disciplinary Artist renowned for her innovative approach to fashion and art. Her work delves into identity, culture, and social issues, combining sustainable practices, artisan craftsmanship, and community-driven projects. Tolu Coker’s designs have been worn by icons such as Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Maya Jama and Tems and featured in global publications, including British Vogue, where featured as a cover for the January 2024 Sustainability Trailblazer issue. Her accolades include being a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree and a BFC NEWGEN 24/25 awardee.
ANCUTA SARCA
Fashion Designer
Ancuta Sarca is a London-based Romanian designer renowned for her innovative approach to footwear, merging sportswear elements with high fashion. Her designs focus on sustainability and upcycling, often transforming deadstock materials, including surplus sneakers and leathers, into unique, sculptural heels. In 2024, her Fall/Winter collection drew inspiration from cult classics like American Psycho and Fight Club, showcasing bold minimalist designs in a dark, cinematic setting. Highlights included 3D-printed wedge soles, knee-high boots made from recycled car seat leather, and an inventive “Hoodie Bag,” blending fashion with functionality
LUKE DERRICK
Fashion Designer
London-based designer Luke Derrick has quickly made a name for himself in contemporary menswear. This year, his eponymous label DERRICK debuted two celebrated collections at London Fashion Week, drawing the attention of Dover Street Market in London and Paris, after his first collection sold out in Japan after one week. Derrick’s sharp tailoring earned red carpet recognition when The Crown’s Khalid Abdalla wore his designs to the Golden Globes, landing a spot on Vogue’s Best Dressed list. Blending British tailoring with the sensibilities of multicultural London, Derrick crafts menswear that combines elegance with the versatility required for today’s world.
JOHANNA PARV
Fashion Designer
Johanna Parv is an innovative designer known for her contemporary approach to fashion, blending art, sustainability, and technology. In 2024, she garnered significant attention for her groundbreaking collection at London Fashion Week, which featured eco-conscious materials and cutting-edge designs. Parv’s work explores the intersection of nature and modernity, incorporating upcycled fabrics and innovative construction techniques. Her pieces, praised for their sculptural qualities and intricate craftsmanship, have been embraced by forward-thinking fashion enthusiasts. In 2024, Parv also collaborated with emerging tech companies to develop smart textiles, further cementing her role as a key voice in sustainable fashion.
DAVOUNTE WILLIAMS
Fashion Designer
Davounte Williams Dyer is a London-based fashion designer and founder of their eponymous label, Davounte Williams. Williams Dyer is an alumni of London College of Fashion and has worked with renowned names like Mowalola, Burberry, Ib Kamara, Riccardo Tisci, Flo and many more.
He has recently released a collection titled ‘People in Soufrière Hills,’ inspired by his hometown of Montserrat, blending his passion for sexy, tailored, quintessential clothing.
TAIBA AKHUETIE
Fashion Designer / Hairstylist
Taiba Akhuetie is a London-based designer and hairstylist known for her bold, avant-garde creations that blend fashion with artistry. Specializing in high-concept hair designs, Taiba pushes the boundaries of hairstyling by integrating elements of sculpture, texture, and color into her work. In 2024, she gained attention for her innovative collaborations, including working with major fashion campaigns and high-profile musicians. Her work has appeared in publications like Vogue and Dazed, while she has contributed her hairstyling expertise to artists like Skepta and Burna Boy. Taiba’s distinctive approach continues to influence both the fashion and music industries.
FIMIGUERRERO
Musician
Fimiguerrero is a Nigerian-born, London-raised artist making waves in the UK music scene with his unique style blending energetic beats and inventive flows. In 2024, he released the hit singles “Vogue” and “Mandy,” each amassing over a million streams on Spotify. These tracks led up to his acclaimed mixtape New World Order, featuring standout songs like “Racks Up” and “MVP.” Known for his innovative sound, Fimiguerrero has earned recognition from prominent artists like Lancey Foux and collaborated with rising talents. His creative trajectory positions him as a key voice in the UK’s underground music scene
NIA SMITH
Musician
Nia Smith is a British musician making waves with her soulful, cinematic sound and raw, personal lyrics. In 2024, she released her debut EP Give Up The Fear, which includes standout tracks like “Little Red Car” and “Don’t Cry.” The EP explores themes of self-discovery, heartbreak, and empowerment, drawing listeners into her emotional journey. Produced by Grammy-winning Fraser T. Smith, the collection has been praised for its honesty and vulnerability. Nia’s music blends introspective soul-pop with powerful vocals, earning her acclaim from major outlets like NME and British Vogue. She also toured with Elmiene and opened for Jordan Rakei at the Royal Albert Hall
TENDAI
Musician
Tendai, a 24-year-old East London-based musician and producer, continued to make waves in 2024 with his genre-defying sound. Known for his ability to blend soul, electronic, and industrial influences, he worked from his “Raido Room” studio, crafting emotionally charged tracks like “Twin Flame” and “My World.” His music explores themes of love, loss, and introspection, often paired with striking visuals, such as the monochromatic video for “Twin Flame.” Tendai gained recognition with co-signs from artists like Stormzy and Masego and was nominated for the prestigious Ivor Novello Rising Star award, cementing his reputation as one of the UK’s brightest talents
AYCHIBS
DJ
AyChibs is a Creative Director + DJ/Producer hailing from Hackney that uses his creative vision as medium of expression through visual, audio, and real world experiences. Jack of all trades, master of some.
He’s the founder of ABOE (A Bit Of Everything) a creative studio dedicated to collaborating with artists & brands through projects and unique experiences, inspiring authenticity and collaboration throughout all their work.
MALIX
DJ
Malix, a London-based sister duo, captivates global audiences with their dynamic fusion of House, Afro Tech, and Latin House. Their electrifying performances have ignited dance floors in cities like London, Paris, Barcelona, Mexico City, and Dubai, gracing iconic venues such as Printworks, KOKO, and Phonox. Through their signature electronic night, Faem e li, they deliver a transcendent experience, blending drum-heavy beats with global percussive sounds. Champions of dance music from the diaspora, Malix hosts a monthly residency on Rinse FM and guest mixes on BBC 1XTRA and NTS. Collaborating with brands like Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Prada, they embody evolution, with family at their core.
RANDY AGYEMANG
DJ / Model
Randy Agyemang’s 2024 was a year of growth and solidification. Balancing instinct with strategy proved challenging, as his creative journey has always been intuitive. A significant rise in travel allowed Randy to experience diverse global scenes, deepening his understanding of what London lacked. Through Hit You on the Rebound, he curated parties dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences, expanding his vision from London to cities like Paris and Tokyo. His standout achievement was going fully freelance, finding clarity and focus in his work without external distractions. Randy’s year marked a pivotal step in shaping his future while celebrating his present successes.
COURRTNEY J. BENNETT
DIrector of Photography
Courtney J. Bennett is a cinematographer in London, UK. He was born in Derbyshire and grew up in Cambridgeshire before moving to London, where he settled. His filmmaking journey began in 2013 when he first honed his skills by shooting music videos, documentaries, and various passion projects. Courtney has built a diverse portfolio encompassing multiple genres, including TV commercials, fashion films, short films, and music videos. In 2023, he won the Bronze award at the CICILOPE festival for his work on the Music video ‘Dirt in the Diamond’ directed by Renee Osubu. 2024 has been a great year working with some amazing directors and recently signing with WPA agency.
JOSEPH TAYLOR
Editor
Joseph Taylor is a talented editor known for his distinctive visual storytelling. In 2024, his work continues to shine, with highlights including the dynamic music video for Fe!n, the gripping Fatima film directed by Gabriel Moses, and high-profile campaigns like Nike & Corteiz. He also edited impactful Nike & Ja Morant commercial and captured the Y3 shirt release with Real Madrid, featuring Jude Bellingham. Taylor’s exceptional ability to blend artistry with commercial vision has made him a sought-after collaborator in both music and fashion industries, establishing him as a rising star in filmmaking.
BEN COLE
Director
In the past year, Ben Cole has directed approximately 20 music videos, including two films for the legendary Kylie Minogue and his first visual album for Foushee’s Pointy Heights. He also directed a global campaign for Doc Martens and had two of his films selected for the Berlin Commercial Festival and Berlin Music Video Festival. Ben is set to shoot two more music videos before the year concludes and is currently writing two narrative shorts for the upcoming year.
CHIARA LAFOUR
Producer
Max Alan is a creative producer and director who launched his career in 2023 after studying Business at university. In 2024, he founded Marvellous Last Night, a creative agency that quickly made waves with projects for Rinse FM and Bape. His standout achievement was premiering Age Like Wine, a video for Arz in collaboration with Bape, at their London flagship in Mayfair. Known for blending production expertise with a community-first approach, Max has cast for artists like Wizkid, Ice Spice, and Central Cee. With an unyielding drive, he aims to grow Marvellous Last Night while pursuing passion projects in 2025.
MAX ALAN
Producer / Assistant Director
Max Alan is a creative producer and director who launched his career in 2023 after studying Business at university. In 2024, he founded Marvellous Last Night, a creative agency that quickly made waves with projects for Rinse FM and Bape. His standout achievement was premiering Age Like Wine, a video for Arz in collaboration with Bape, at their London flagship in Mayfair. Known for blending production expertise with a community-first approach, Max has cast for artists like Wizkid, Ice Spice, and Central Cee. With an unyielding drive, he aims to grow Marvellous Last Night while pursuing passion projects in 2025.
ABIOLA RUFAI-AWOJIDE
Film Producer
Abíó̩lá is a film and TV producer whose work focuses on shaping compelling cross-cultural narratives. With an expansive background ranging from short films and music promos to features and TV, her credits include series Extraordinary (Disney+), feature film How to Have Sex (Cannes Un Certain Regard winner) and short films No More Wings (Tribeca Best Narrative Short) and Motherhood (Channel 4). During her time in-house, she nurtured rising creatives as Network Officer at BFI Network and supported projects at Channel 4, including the talent initiative 4Stories. Now co-leading Carbon Pictures alongside Elizabeth Rufai, Abíó̩lá is drawn to inventive narratives and bold genre exploration, that resonate both locally and globally.
ZACKY DAU
Model
Zacky Dau is a dynamic model known for his distinctive look and versatility. In 2024, he has made a significant mark in the fashion industry, gracing the runways of top designers and appearing in high-profile campaigns. He collaborated with emerging brands such as LOUTRE and established names like Prada and Balenciaga, bringing a unique energy to each project. Zacky’s ability to embody a range of styles—from high fashion to streetwear—has earned him recognition in both editorial and commercial work. With his strong presence and evolving career, Zacky continues to shape the future of modeling in 2024
CHERIF DOUAMBA
Model
Cherif Douamba, a 28-year-old model from Côte d’Ivoire, has risen to prominence in the fashion industry with standout moments in 2024. Known for his striking physique and charismatic presence, Cherif walked for prestigious brands like Dior, Fendi, and Valentino. A highlight of his year was collaborating with Pharrell Williams on Louis Vuitton campaigns, a personal milestone given his admiration for the musician. Beyond modeling, Cherif is committed to amplifying African talent and showcasing West African creativity through his work. His versatility and dedication to cultural representation continue to make him a sought-after figure in fashion and beyond
AKUAC THIEP
Model
Akuac Thiep is a model from Hackney, London, with South Sudanese heritage. She studied Anthropology with Comparative Religion at the University of Manchester before transitioning to full-time modeling. In 2024, Thiep continued to make waves in the fashion world, collaborating with renowned photographers such as Nick Knight, Tim Walker, and Lea Colombo. She modeled for celebrated designers like Molly Goddard, Maisie Wilen, Clio Peppiatt, and Mowalola, showcasing her versatile presence on both runway and editorial shoots. Thiep’s standout moments this year included features in publications like Schön! Magazine, where she appeared in a striking editorial
BIBI ABDULKADIR
Model
Bibi Abdulkadir is a Somali-British model and advocate for Black literature, based in London. Scouted at 16, she began her career after completing a degree in Pharmacology. Known for her striking features and versatile presence, Bibi has graced the covers of Harper’s Bazaar UK, Tank, and French magazines. Her editorial work includes prominent publications like British Vogue and ELLE. In 2024, she appeared on the cover of Vogue Portugal’s March issue, showcasing her growing prominence in the fashion industry
Outside modeling, she runs bibisbooks, a virtual book club celebrating Black authors
JOSH TEDEKU
Actor
Josh is a 21-year-old Edinburgh TV Festival and MOBO Award-nominated actor. He is best known for his role as ‘Tazer’ in Netflix’s hit series SUPACELL, which topped the global streaming charts and holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. He also stars as ‘Jaheim’ in BOARDERS on BBC Three and Tubi, earning him award nominations. Josh featured in the critically acclaimed short FESTIVAL OF SLAPS, which won a BIFA and earned a BAFTA nomination. Additional credits include A TOWN CALLED MALICE for Sky and NOW TV, and MOONHAVEN for AMC+, opposite Jason Flemyng and Martha Plimpton.
VIVIAN OPARAH
Actress
Vivian Oparah is a British actress and musician, acclaimed for her diverse talents on both screen and stage. In 2024, she earned a British Independent Film Award for her standout performance in Rye Lane, alongside a British Academy Film Award nomination. Oparah is also known for her television roles, including her appearance in the BBC Three Doctor Who spin-off Class and the Amazon Prime series Dead Hot. Her compelling performances continue to captivate audiences, establishing her as one of the UK’s most promising and versatile young talents.
SUPREMEYOMS
Culture Curator
Supremeyoms is a dynamic creative force and the founder of Galactamelanin, a collective celebrating culture through innovative events and digital storytelling. With a keen eye for inclusivity and diversity, she has hosted over 15 events, curating memorable experiences for more than 2,000 attendees in three years. Her expertise spans brand collaborations, influencer partnerships, and event logistics, exemplified by her work with Metallic Inc and organising a tour. As a skilled creative director, she has directed shoots for brands like Meaculpa and Prayrstudios, showcasing her ability to bring her visions to life. Supremeyoms is passionate about creating empowering spaces that inspire connection and creativity.
LOSTBOYS CHANNEL
Culture Curator
Lostboys Channel is a dynamic creative collective known for redefining youth culture through music, fashion, and community-driven events. In 2024, they cemented their influence with a series of sold-out boat parties, blending cutting-edge DJ sets with immersive visual experiences, making waves in London’s event scene. Their standout achievement was a high-profile collaboration with Nike, which reimagined the iconic Tech Fleece collection. The capsule, inspired by urban resilience and modern utility, became an instant streetwear staple. With a focus on innovation and cultural connection, Lostboys Channel continues to shape the intersection of music, fashion, and community in exciting, boundary-pushing ways.
VICTOR KUNDA
Culture Curator
Victor Kunda is a rising star known for his infectious charm and comedic talents. Starting with Facebook and YouTube sketches in 2016, he rose to TikTok stardom during the pandemic, with a viral video of him pretending to smoke a breadstick earning over 6 million views. Since then, his dynamic performances have garnered the attention of celebrities like Bella Hadid and Lil Nas X. In 2024, Kunda solidified his place in both comedy and fashion, collaborating with luxury brands such as Burberry, Balenciaga, and Hugo Boss. His recognition by British Vogue as “Fashion’s Favorite TikTok Star” marks a significant milestone in his career
FDFROMTHEFUTURE
Culture Curator
FD is a visionary personality renowned for blending street culture with mainstream narratives. In 2024, FD cemented his influence by interviewing Central Cee, Skepta, Russ, and Westside Gunn, delivering compelling conversations that bridged music and community. He played a pivotal role in announcing the highly anticipated Corteiz x Supreme collaboration, a milestone for streetwear enthusiasts. FD also partnered with Arsenal FC, elevating football culture through creative projects, and collaborated with Timberland and eBay on sustainable fashion initiatives. His dynamic ability to connect global brands with youth culture solidified FD’s status as a tastemaker and cultural curator for the next generation.
NICOLAS-TYRELL SCOTTT
Writer / Culture Curator
Nicolas-Tyrell Scott is a London-based culture and music journalist, with work printed/published in GQ, Pitchfork, Dazed, Apple Music, and more. As a speaker, he’s been featured on BBC, Channel 4, Wray and Nephew, The Grapevine TV, No Signal, Over The Bridge podcast, and spoken at Soho House. In music, he’s crafted assets for Mahalia, Adekunle Gold, Bru-C, Sainte, and others.
Nicolas-Tyrell has an informed view on music, which spans hip-hop to R&B, to emergent genres like drill, future-sounds, He’s consulted with the likes of Universal, Wray & Nephew and Red Bull helping to solidify brand or artist positioning.
BIOR ELLIOTT
Art Director
Bior Elloitt is an Associate Creative Director at Highsnobiety and the founder of S_.ein, a creative platform bridging culture, design, and innovation. In 2024, Elloitt solidified his reputation as a visionary art director, spearheading standout campaigns that seamlessly fused luxury, streetwear, and youth culture. Under his direction, Highsnobiety delivered some of the year’s most talked-about editorial visuals and collaborations, redefining storytelling in digital media.
JAVEL BERLIN
Culture Curator
Javel Berlin is a renowned culture curator and sneaker enthusiast celebrated for his innovative approach to blending fashion, music, and art. Based in London, Javel’s expertise lies in spotlighting emerging talent and creating dynamic cultural experiences. In 2024, he curated groundbreaking events like Sneaker Culture Unbound and collaborated with major brands for exclusive drops, including a limited-edition Air Max. His work on the Streetwear Futures exhibit at the Design Museum gained critical acclaim, while his sneaker collection, featuring rare and vintage pieces, continues to inspire a global community. Javel’s influence cements him as a leading voice in contemporary street culture.
RACHEL JONES
Artist
Rachel Jones is a London based multidisciplinary artist celebrated for her bold and expressive relationship to abstraction. Known for exploring themes of interiority and identity, her works span painting, performance, sound, installation and design. In 2024, she was commissioned to design the BRIT Award trophy, continuing a legacy of prominent British artists contributing to the iconic event. Jones has exhibited at institutions internationally, including a 2024 solo exhibition at the Museum of African Diaspora in San Fransisco, and her works are housed in collections such as the Stedlijk Museum, the Studio Museum Harlem and the Tate, where her standout work ‘lick your teeth, they so clutch’ (2021) is currently on display, at Tate Britain. Her vibrant artistry bridges personal storytelling and universal narratives.
MANU PILLAI
Art Director
The past year marked a pivotal moment for Manu Pillai as he embarked on his journey of working independently and launching his design studio, @pamu.studio. While the experience was at times intimidating, Manu reflects on the year with immense gratitude for the talented individuals around him and excitement for what lies ahead.
His key takeaway from this transformative period is a testament to his philosophy: trust yourself, approach your work with good intentions, and stay committed. In doing so, Manu believes, everything will unfold exactly as it is meant to.
TEONI HINDS
Artist
Teoni is a Jamaican-born, London-based fine artist celebrated for her deeply personal and emotive figurative work. Her art captures the rawness of everyday moments through mediums like oil painting, life drawing, video art, and film photography. In 2024, Teoni made waves with her debut solo exhibition, Honey, a heartfelt exploration of love, intimacy, and connection. The exhibition featured 15 paintings and one film, including standout works such as Undeserved and For Beau, from Oni. Her practice, which often highlights vibrant yellows and reds, continues to romanticize the mundane while spotlighting themes of vulnerability and self-reflection
SINISA
Art Director
Siniša, an Eastern European videographer and current art director for Mowalola, is passionate about creating videos that elevate his skills in both filming and editing. His work with Mowalola inspires him to foster a respectful and collaborative environment in the studio and on set. Siniša values working alongside talented and enjoyable people, embracing creativity and fun in his daily pursuits. Personally, he is immersed in developing his own film projects, exploring themes that resonate deeply with his unique vision. With several scripts in progress, he eagerly anticipates bringing them to life, aiming to create bold films his mother might not enjoy watching.
JULIA DIAS
Set Designer
Julia Dias is a visionary set designer celebrated for her innovative approach to spatial storytelling. Based in London, she is known for blending sculptural artistry with immersive environments, crafting evocative backdrops for fashion, music, and art projects. In 2024, Julia’s work shone across notable collaborations, including set designs for high-profile campaigns by luxury fashion houses and editorial spreads in Dazed and i-D. She also conceptualized a striking stage design for an avant-garde music festival and contributed to the artistic direction of a critically acclaimed exhibition at the Tate Modern. Julia’s work continues to redefine the boundaries of set design.
KEI TAKANO
Hairstylist
Kei Takano is a renowned hair stylist celebrated for her innovative approach to hair design. Known for her ability to blend contemporary styles with timeless techniques, she has built a reputation for creating bold, high-fashion looks with a unique flair. In 2024, Kei worked on major campaigns for high-profile fashion brands and collaborated with photographers at leading fashion events, including London Fashion Week. Her artistry has graced top magazines, where she consistently pushes the boundaries of hairstyling. With a focus on individuality and creativity, Kei Takano continues to shape the future of hair fashion in 2024.
CHARLIE MURRAY
Make Up Artist
Charlie Murray is a London-based makeup artist celebrated for her versatile and innovative approach to beauty. In 2024, Murray solidified her reputation through standout collaborations with Saul Nash, Simone Rocha, and Erdem, while also working with brands like Richard Malone x Mulberry, Adidas, and Browns. Her artistry graced major publications including Vogue Arabia, Elle UK, Dazed, and British GQ. Notably, she keyed Saul Nash's SS25 lookbook and AW24 show, showcasing her signature creative flair. Murray also contributed to iconic runway shows for Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry, marking her as one of the most sought-after talents in contemporary beauty.
THE HAND OF GOD
Retouching / Grade
The Hand Of God is an independent post-production studio known for its precision and creativity. Partnering with top photographers, agencies, and global brands, the studio provides exceptional post-production services tailored to the specific needs of its clients. In 2024, The Hand Of God continued its legacy of excellence by collaborating with major magazines like i-D and Dazed, and renowned brands such as Nike, Alexander McQueen, Zara, and Jean Paul Gaultier. The studio’s impeccable work in visual enhancement cements its position as a trusted leader in the post-production industry.
WHAT'S CULTURE
Culture Curator
What’s Culture is an influential online platform on Instagram, dedicated to documenting entertainment, political, and sports culture, with a focus on Black British and American perspectives. In 2024, the platform solidified its role as a vital voice in cultural discourse, spotlighting emerging Black artists, amplifying political conversations around social justice, and celebrating sports milestones within the diaspora. Known for its sharp curation and engaging storytelling, What’s Culture has grown into a community hub, bridging conversations across continents. From exclusive interviews to viral content, the platform continues to set trends, inform audiences, and champion authentic Black narratives in the digital age.