Afua Kyei, the Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of England, has been named the UK's most influential black person on the 2026 Powerlist. This prestigious list recognizes individuals of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage who are making significant contributions to British society.
Who is Afua Kyei?
Madam Kyei, a mother of four, is a leading figure in finance, overseeing the Bank of England's substantial balance sheet and driving funding reforms. Her journey is particularly inspiring as she highlights the Bank of England's support for working families, a message she emphasizes as crucial for women balancing career and family.
A Ghanaian Heritage
Her parents, who immigrated to the UK from Ghana for university education, have been a major influence on her life. Their dedication and achievements served as a foundation for her success.
Kyei, who was recruited by the Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in his former role as the governor of the Bank of England, said topping the list was "incredibly humbling".
Powerlist 2026: Other Influential Figures
Aside from Afua Kyei, the Powerlist 2026 includes other notable names such as former footballer Ian Wright, make-up artist Dame Pat McGrath, and actor Idris Elba. The list celebrates excellence across various fields, from sports and entertainment to business and finance.
- Ian Wright
- Dame Pat McGrath
- Idris Elba
The recognition of Afua Kyei underscores the growing visibility and impact of black leaders in the UK. Her story serves as an inspiration to young black people, demonstrating that there are no limits to what they can achieve.
Speaking on Sky News about the importance of The Powerlist, Ms Kyei said: "What we've seen throughout history is that sometimes the contributions of ethnic minority talent or black leaders are not always recorded and so they get forgotten, and sometimes get lost."
The Powerlist is published by Powerful Media, identifies the UK’s most powerful people of African, African Caribbean and African American heritage in the UK.