MOBO Awards launches new cultural venue in south London
Published:Wednesday | December 3, 2025 | 12:07 AMToussaint Davy/Contributor
MOBO Organisation CEO and founder, Kanya King, launched the House of MOBO in south London last week, ahead of its award ceremony on March 26, 2026, at Manchester’s Co-Op Live Arena.
Done in partnership with national pub and drinks retailer, Greene King, the new site will be a brand-new cultural hub in south London, with apparent plans to launch more if this initial foray proves successful.
The site that has stood derelict for two years underwent a complete refurbishment. With the walls now adorned with images of black excellence, photography and art alongside key moments from the MOBO Awards.
A promising new community and creative space, the House of MOBO seeks to play a role as a cultural hub championing black British art and music. “Thirty years ago, I started MOBO in November 1996, and here we are 30 years later opening up the House of Mobo to celebrate our culture unapologetically,” King began. “And what a journey it’s been. Greene King, our partners, have achieved an incredible job refurbishing this space. Every part of it has been carried out with intention.
“We haven’t just arrived. We have been trailblazing for many years, for generations, and we should be proud. We wanted local people to feel welcome here, and we wanted a place where people could come and create. This is a place where magic will happen,” she added.
Celebrities in attendance included sisters Easther and Vernie Bennett from UK ‘90s pop supergroup, Eternal, alongside singer-songwriter Carla Marie Williams, co-writer of Beyonce’s Freedom single and founder of GirlsIRate, the global female empowerment platform, broadcaster ZeZe Millz and actress Chizzy Akodulu.
Nick McKenzie, chief executive of Green King, said: “Our partnership with the MOBO Group is all about creating opportunities and opening doors to unlock and support underrepresented talent in our sector, which is why we are incredibly proud to be working with them to launch the House of MOBO.”
The House of MOBO is located at 255 Gipsy Hill, Norwood, London.