The Powerlist 2026, which celebrates the 100 most influential Black Britons, features some of the UK’s most accomplished trailblazers — and Joshua Siaw MBE stands tall at No. 5. A leading lawyer and advisor on Africa-UK trade relations, Joshua’s rise is a story of excellence, purpose, and influence on the global stage. Here are ten things you should know about him:
1. A Leading Partner at White & Case
Joshua Siaw is a Partner in White & Case’s Global Debt Finance Practice and also serves as the Director of the Firm’s Africa Practice. He advises governments, banks, corporations, and financial institutions on complex, cross-border transactions — especially across Africa’s fast-growing markets.
2. A Trusted Advisor on African Finance and Development
Josh has played a pivotal role in landmark project finance and development deals across Africa, leveraging his deep understanding of the continent’s economic dynamics. His work supports sustainable infrastructure, trade growth, and financial innovation across multiple African nations.
3. Recognized as One of Africa’s “Rising Stars”
Global business publication Euromoney once hailed him as “one of Africa’s Rising Stars”, while Forbes described him as “one of Africa’s most influential young business leaders.” The African Union named him Young Business Leader of the Year, and The Africa Report included him among “three individuals shaping Africa’s economic future.”
4. A Decade on the Powerlist
Joshua has featured on Britain’s Powerlist for 10 consecutive years, ranking among the UK’s most influential Black individuals. In 2025, he was recognized as the most influential Black person in law, and in 2026, he climbed to No. 5 overall, cementing his place among the nation’s top changemakers.
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5. An MBE Honoured by Her Majesty The Queen
In June 2019, Joshua was appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for his outstanding services to law, UK legal services, and his contributions to UK–Africa trade and investment.
6. A Key Voice in UK–Africa Relations
Josh has been deeply involved in shaping the UK’s trade and investment relationship with Africa. He has served on several UK government and royal advisory groups, including the UK Board of Trade’s Global Britain Sub-Group, the Africa Green Growth Advisory Council, and the UK-Africa FinTech Investment Group.
7. Represented the UK on the Global Stage
In 2018, he was the only lawyer selected to join then-Prime Minister Theresa May’s trade mission to Africa, symbolizing his pivotal role in connecting the UK and African markets.
8. Appointed Co-Chair of the UK-Africa Investors Group
In 2023, the UK Prime Minister appointed Josh as Co-Chair of the UK Africa Investors Group (AIG) alongside His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa. The group works to enhance trade and investment between the UK and the African continent.
9. A Member of Prestigious Advisory Councils
Joshua also sits on the Advisory Council of The Queen’s Green Canopy Initiative, established by King Charles III, and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Foundation, appointed by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in 2025.
10. A Global Influence Beyond the Courtroom
Recognized in Marquis Who’s Who in the World since 2016, Joshua’s influence extends beyond law. He’s a bridge-builder between continents — advocating for sustainable growth, youth empowerment, and equitable partnerships between the UK and Africa.
In a world where law, business, and diplomacy intersect, Joshua Siaw stands as a symbol of excellence, integrity, and visionary leadership. His journey continues to inspire young professionals across the UK and Africa to dream big — and lead with purpose.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
