Issa Rae, the American actress, writer, producer, and serial entrepreneur, was celebrated with an intimate lunch in London ahead of the highly anticipated 2024 British Fashion Awards.
The gathering, a prelude to the prestigious awards ceremony, honoured Rae's outstanding contributions to advocacy and social change.
Later tonight, she will be presented with the Pandora Leader of Change Award for her unwavering dedication to civil and women’s rights.
Rae’s influence in Hollywood and beyond has been marked by her steadfast commitment to social justice.
"Rae’s work has inspired and resonated with people all over the globe, and she is a fierce advocate for movements, always championing equality and social justice in her acting and writing," said Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council. "She consistently uses her platform to spotlight the lack of diversity in Hollywood and call for more representation in the industry, including seeing people of colour behind the scenes. She is wholeheartedly committed to moving conversations forward and bringing voices to life that are usually absent and underrepresented in order to open doors for others."
Through her roles and her work behind the scenes, Rae has long pushed for broader representation and the inclusion of marginalised voices in entertainment. From her early web series The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl to the critically acclaimed Insecure, Rae's impact has been profound. Insecure became a cultural touchstone, praised for its authentic portrayal of Black women’s lives and the complexities of navigating identity, love, and ambition in a world that often marginalises them. Her success in breaking down barriers has set a powerful example for other creatives, particularly women of colour, seeking to make their voices heard.
Rae’s contributions extend far beyond the screen. In 2020, she founded Hoorae, a media company focused on creating diverse and inclusive content. That same year, she also became a co-owner and the face of Sienna Naturals, a vegan hair care line that celebrates natural beauty, providing products designed specifically for Black women.
Rae’s advocacy for social justice and empowerment of underserved communities is further reflected in her support for initiatives like Destination Crenshaw, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to empowering Black communities in Los Angeles. Her work with the organisation underscores her ongoing commitment to creating opportunities and bringing about meaningful change.
Among those present at the intimate lunch in London was Rae’s close friend and Insecure co-star, Yvonne Orji. Orji, who will present Rae with her award later tonight, is a vocal supporter of Rae’s work and she was "looking forward to honouring her with the @britishfashioncouncil #LeaderOfChange Award".
Rae’s career has always been rooted in using her platform to amplify voices and make room for people who have been historically excluded. As Pandora’s Chief Marketing Officer Berta de Pablos-Barbier put it, “Through her work acting, directing, and producing, Issa amplifies creative voices from her community and beyond, inspiring authenticity and championing inclusivity.”
Tonight, at the Royal Albert Hall, Issa Rae will be formally recognised for her efforts to create positive change in the entertainment industry and beyond.
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