Issa Rae to be named Leader of Change at 2024 British Fashion Awards for “championing equality and social justice in her acting and writing”

AMERICAN actress, writer, and producer Issa Rae will be honoured with the Pandora Leader of Change Award at the 2024 British Fashion Awards in December for her unwavering advocacy for civil and women’s rights.

“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,” she added.

Rae’s influence has extended across multiple platforms, from the award-winning web series The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl to the critically acclaimed, Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated series Insecure. Her work has been celebrated for its authentic and empowering portrayal of Black women.

The prestigious award will be presented by Rae's Insecure co-star and close friend, actress and comedian Yvonne Orji, at the star-studded ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall on December 2.

The Pandora Leader of Change Award honours individuals who are committed to creating meaningful global change. “Through her work acting, directing, and producing, Issa amplifies creative voices from her community and beyond, inspiring authenticity and championing inclusivity,” said Berta de Pablos-Barbier, Pandora’s chief marketing officer.

In 2020, Rae took another bold step by founding Hoorae, a media company dedicated to telling diverse and inclusive stories. That same year, she became a co-owner and the face of Sienna Naturals, a vegan hair care line.

Rae’s impact goes beyond entertainment—she has also collaborated with the nonprofit organisation Destination Crenshaw, a project focused on empowering Black communities in Los Angeles.