Taponeswa makes BBC Woman’s Hour Power List 2018 with Beyonce at number 1

Zimbabwean music executive Taponeswa Mavunga has been ranked 25th in the BBC Woman’s Hour Power List 2018.

Mavunga is the head of publicity at Columbus Records and the judges said of her:

She’s hugely influential in the Afrobeats movement and its rise in the UK. She’s known for championing her artists and supporting new, young creatives into the industry both at Columbia and externally

Taponeswa has headed up publicity campaigns for the likes of Missy Elliot, Toni Braxton, Jay Z and Ed Sheeran. She’s a vocal supporter for African music talent, having previously run Talent & Music at Viacom Africa, and works to help acts get international airplay.

Taponeswa was elated:

What a morning… I’m included in The Women’s Hour 2018 Power List, was not expecting that at all! To be associated with something that recognises women changing the industry from within, making it more diverse and championing the work of other women amongst other things is something i’m super proud to be included in. Thank you @bbcwomanshour andcongratulations to the baddasss ladies also included! #whpowerlist #columbiarecordsuk #bbcwomanshour

US star Beyonce tops the list with Taylor Swift second. Others to make the list are Adele, Cardi B and Dua Lipa.

The Woman’s Hour 2018 Power List celebrates the Top 40 most successful women having an impact on the music we’re all listening to.

These are the women demonstrating power in the industry, innovators and ground-breakers supporting and championing the work of other women or changing the industry from within – making it more equal, diverse and creative.

For the full list click here.