THE WINNERS FROM THE GUAP GALA 2023

The second annual GUAP Gala took place on Friday the 15th of September at the Natural History Museum. Another night of celebrating creative excellence saw 19 winners take home the coveted GUAP Gala trophies in recognition of their hard work and talent over the last year. The night transported us to the future, with outfits exploring what ‘Cosmic Dreams’ look like, from the advancement of technology to imagining what other worlds could look like.

Here’s all the winners from the night:

Cultural Hero of the Year Supported by Whatsapp

Winner: Kelechi Okafor

Kelechi Okafor is a Black-British public speaker, podcaster, activist, and writer; recently releasing her latest book, Edge of Here.

Industry Professional of the Year

Winner: Alex Ampofo

Alex,is a promoter at one of the UK’s leading gig promoters, Metropolis Music, part of the conglomerate of live music giants, Live Nation Entertainment. She is also the Founder of Women Connect UK.

Creative Business of the Year

Winner: Recess

Six years, 20 team members and over 100 parties later, Recess is now the bedrock of Black London’s nightlife scene, operating out of its HQ in Tottenham. Now operating internationally, the Sonubi brothers, who founded Recess, have found success in New York, Paris and beyond.

DJ of the Year

Winner: AAA

AAA has built a name for himself through consistent momentum on the underground circuit both at home and worldwide.

Podcast/Online Show of the Year

Winner: Shxts n Gigs

ShxtsNGigs is a top 5 Spotify podcast hosted by best friends James and Fuhad. It can be raw, it might be offensive but its always hilarious!

Writer of the Year

Winner: Sophia Thakur

Sophia is the Youth Creator and Educator Ambassador for Jordan’s Jumpman23 Women’s Squad, working on a series of activities to empower communities.

Best in Glam

Winner: Shamara Roper

Shamara Roper is a multi-disciplined hairstylist specialising in textured hair, having worked with the likes of Clara Amfo & Jorja Smith.

Dancer of the Year Supported by adidas

Winner: Regina Eigbe

Regina Igbe is a choreographer, movement director & content creator, choreographing for Stormzy, Young T & Bugsey and Simply Sayo.

Model of the Year

Winner: Mariana Jaguite

Mariana is a fashion and video model, who also freelances as a set designer working with the likes of Trapstar & artist Rema.

Legacy Award

Winner: Idris Elba

Visual Artist of the Year

Winner: CurrieGOAT

CurrieGOAT is a Streetwear artist who uses painting and video to tell stories. He paints directly onto articles of clothing which he shares with his community via social media. His work incorporates timeless subject matters, that bring people together

Director of the Year

Winner: Raine Allen Miller

Raine Allen Miller is a British film director and writer. Her first feature film, Rye Lane was noted by critics for providing an “energetic bounce forward” in the romantic-comedy genre.

Photographer of the Year

Winner: Gabriel Moses

Gabriel Moses is a self-taught artistic and editorial photographer, having worked on campaigns for Nike, Corteiz, Dior and more; recently celebrating his first exhibition.

Stylist of the Year

Winner: Dunsin Wright

Dunsin is a Nigerian stylist, most notably known as mastermind behind Grammy award winning artist, Tem’s looks.

Presenter of the Year

Winner: Harry Pinero

Harry Pinero is a leading presenter, having presented and worked with the likes of Channel 4.0, Footasylum, Amazon Prime & Google UK.

Fashion Brand of the Year

Winner: Corteiz

Corteiz is a London-based streetwear brand founded by the mononymous Clint419.

Actor to Watch

Winner: Kosar Ali

Kosar Ali is an actor, having been nominated for a BAFTA & worked as the star of a BBC show, most recently releasing her directorial debut ‘MUNA’.

Music Artist Supported by 1Xtra

Winner: Natanya

Natanya is an emerging artist, known for her sultry voice, soulful music and hit singles, ‘Angel’ & ‘Foolish’.

Content Creator of the Year Supported by Instagram

Winner: Asher Glean

Asher Glean is a TikTok content creator and actor best known for his comedic skits! His relatable videos and personality appeal to a wide range of audiences as he shares his unique perspective on life.