Speaker Bios
Moderator
Richie Brave, Broadcaster, BBC 1Xtra
Richie Brave is a presenter, journalist and broadcaster known for his work on BBC 1Xtra, BET, Channel 4 and more. With over a decade of community work, Richie brings lived experience into powerful conversations that spotlight social justice and amplify marginalised voices. He is the host of BBC 1Xtra’s 1Xtra Talks, where he explores the realities of Black communities across the UK through bold, thought-provoking dialogue.
Speaker 1
Khalia Ismain, Founder of Jamii and social impact entrepreneur
Khalia Ismain is the founder of Jamii, a loyalty platform championing Black-owned businesses in the UK. Since launching in 2016, she has driven over £1.9 million in sales, grants and advertising, while helping thousands of entrepreneurs thrive. An award-winning social impact entrepreneur, Khalia is reshaping how major retailers, media and corporates engage with underrepresented founders.
Speaker 2
Mike Williams, Co-founder of Flake Bake
Mike Williams is the co-founder of Flake Bake, the UK’s largest handmade Jamaican patty brand. After studying Economics and Politics at the University of Sussex, Mike joined his father Paul to build Flake Bake from a small Peckham bakery into a national success. Their signature patties blend authentic Jamaican flavours with a focus on quality, culture and consistency. Flake Bake has since won multiple awards, including Channel 4’s Aldi’s Next Big Thing and secured a major nationwide listing with Aldi.
Speaker 3
Varaidzo Tendai Moyo, CEO of Ruka
Tendai Moyo is the founder and CEO of Ruka, a haircare brand creating sustainable, patent-pending alternatives to human hair. With a background from LSE and Bain & Co, she has raised over £7 million in funding and led Ruka to global recognition. An award-winning entrepreneur, Tendai Moyo is redefining the hair extensions industry through innovation, inclusivity and community-driven design.