The African Diaspora Economic Forum (DEF) commemorated Africa Day with a high-profile celebration at the prestigious Hilton Kensington, showcasing a powerful message of Afro-Asian cooperation and honouring individuals whose contributions span public service, business, education, and social impact.
Among the distinguished honourees was Mr. Virendra Sharma, former Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall and former Mayor of Southall, recognised for his remarkable 50 years of public service. His enduring commitment to community building and multicultural engagement was applauded as a model for diaspora leadership.
Mr. Padma Kumar, a London-based Malayalee entrepreneur and philanthropist, received accolades for his leadership in business and charitable service. As Managing Director of PK Flight Galley Equipment Ltd and Director of the British South Indian Council of Commerce, Mr. Kumar has also held leadership roles within the Sree Narayana Guru Mission (SNGM) UK and remains an active trustee of several UK and international charitable organisations. His philanthropic legacy and dedication to social causes were central to his recognition.
Mr. Sreejith Somanathan, Director of the Education Network at London East-UK Business Technology Park, was invited as a guest speaker. He was recognised for his innovative educational initiatives and encouraged by DEF leaders to explore the expansion of his services to African countries, highlighting new avenues for cross-continental knowledge sharing and digital innovation.
Joining the distinguished speakers was Cllr Aarien Areti, Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, who brought a message of solidarity and inclusivity. A proud representative of the Indian diaspora, Cllr Areti spoke about the importance of strengthening ties between communities and fostering Afro-Asian unity at the grassroots and civic levels.
Two African political leaders were recognised for their exemplary governance: President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Nigeria, were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in Leadership and Governance.
The Global Media & Leadership Award was presented to Ambassador Alistair Soyode, founder of BEN Television, Europe’s first Black and Ethnic satellite TV station. The honour reflected his decades-long commitment to empowering youth and bridging cultural divides through the work of his TECD Foundation.
The evening also celebrated leading voices from the African diaspora. Dr. Dayo Olomu, a renowned leadership strategist and philanthropist, received the Global Social Impact Award for his tireless work in community service, youth mentorship, and advocacy. His foundation supports food banks, health research, and youth empowerment initiatives.
The DEF event was a resounding affirmation of the shared values and collaborative spirit between African and Indian diaspora communities. Organisers highlighted their vision for deepened partnerships in trade, education, media, and philanthropy, marking a new chapter in Afro-Asian cooperation for global good.
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