Mobo Awards founder Kania King has announced that she has been diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer.
Kanye launched Mobos in 1996 to celebrate black talent in the entertainment industry, including film, music and TV.
The annual awards ceremony has become a major event, with February’s party set to take place in Newcastle.
Kania said finding out she had cancer “was something I never saw coming and I’m still processing the unexpected fact.”
“Although the journey will undoubtedly be challenging, I have always believed in finding meaning through adversity,” said the 55-year-old.
“This diagnosis is not the end of my story—it’s an opportunity to build resilience, to raise awareness, to use this moment not only to fight my own battle, but also the message of early detection and proactive management of my health. The importance is to increase.
“If my story can save just one life, it’s a story worth telling.”
Sharing the news on Instagram, Mobos says Kanye has “set her sights” on attending the next awards to “celebrate the achievements of her community”.
The post, which was also shared on Kanye’s profile, said her diagnosis was a “reminder for all of us to be the CEO of our own health”.
“Kanya’s story is one of resilience, courage and hope.
“As he has always inspired us to grow and celebrate each other, let us now do the same for him.”
In a separate statement, the organization said it is “in capable hands” with Kanya’s “guidance and unwavering support” while she focuses on her health.
Since the post was shared, Kanye has had hundreds of messages of support from well-known names including DJ Target, Rimmel London and Alexandra Burke.
Singer Marvin Himes, who presented the Mobo Awards, said he was “sending love and strength” to Kanye’s recovery.
‘Changed the landscape’
On Wednesday, Mobos announced Kanye as the winner of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
She was recognized for building a “globally respected brand” and for “changing the landscape for black artists” through her work.
In 2018, she was recognized in the Queen’s Birthday Honors List and appointed a CBE for her services to music.
She was too. Listed in the BBC’s First 100 Women Project. When it was launched in 2013. Since then, it has been an annual series celebrating 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world.
In 2009, the Mobo Awards moved out of London for the first time and have since moved to the UK.
Last year the event was held in Sheffield.
gave The list of nominees was released earlier this month.with a chance to win Best Male Artist three times with Central C.
Last year’s best actress, Rey, is in the running for the second year.
The awards also celebrate global talent and have welcomed stars including Beyoncé, Usher, Rihanna and Janet Jackson in the past.