Today's Feature

December 29th

Dyke, Dryden, and Wade

The achievements of the first Black British entrepreneurs to reach multimillion pound status have been recognised through the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.

The commemorative plaque has been unveiled to pay tribute to three individuals who are credited with establishing the initial multi-million pound enterprise within the Black British community. Situated at the location of a renowned wig and cosmetic store in the northern region of London, this plaque serves as a symbol of their remarkable achievements.

Len Dyke, Dudley Dryden, and Tony Wade were instrumental in revolutionizing the beauty and hair industry by catering to the needs of Black women throughout the United Kingdom.

These visionary entrepreneurs successfully built a thriving business empire by offering an extensive range of beauty and hair products specifically tailored to the diverse needs of Black women. Their dedication and commitment to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service propelled their company to unprecedented heights. By recognizing the untapped potential within the Black British community, Dyke, Dryden, and Wade not only paved the way for future entrepreneurs but also shattered stereotypes and challenged societal norms.

The significance of this plaque lies not only in commemorating the achievements of these three remarkable individuals but also in acknowledging the profound impact they had on the Black British community. Their entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination serve as an inspiration to aspiring business owners, particularly within marginalized communities. This plaque serves as a reminder of the immense contributions made by Dyke, Dryden, and Wade, and their invaluable role in shaping the landscape of the beauty and hair industry in the United Kingdom.

Dyke and Dryden established their store on West Green Road in Tottenham in 1965, marking the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey. Three years later, Wade became an integral part of their business as a trusted business partner in 1968.

Reflecting on the early days, Rudi Page, a sales and marketing manager within the company, fondly recalls the profound impact Dyke and Dryden had on the local community. Their unwavering dedication to the growth and empowerment of young individuals was truly inspiring. They actively sought to provide opportunities for the youth, and Rudi himself was fortunate enough to be one of the beneficiaries of their vision and support. The duo's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering personal development was evident in their actions, leaving a lasting impression on those around them.

The company demonstrated its commitment to community outreach by providing assistance to white Barnardo's staff in learning how to properly care for the hair of black children. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap in knowledge and ensure that all children, regardless of their racial background, received the appropriate hair care they needed. This effort not only showcased the company's dedication to inclusivity and diversity but also helped foster a sense of understanding and cultural sensitivity within the organization.

In 1983, the company took a significant step forward by introducing the highly successful Afro Hair and Beauty Exhibition, an annual event that continues to thrive to this day. This exhibition serves as a platform to celebrate and showcase the beauty and diversity of Afro hair and beauty products. It brings together professionals, experts, and enthusiasts from various backgrounds to exchange knowledge, share trends, and promote inclusivity in the beauty industry.

The exhibition has become a significant event in the industry, attracting a wide range of attendees, including hairstylists, beauty enthusiasts, and individuals interested in learning more about Afro hair care and beauty practices. Through this event, the company not only supported and empowered individuals with Afro hair but also contributed to the overall appreciation and understanding of diverse beauty standards.

Despite his passing in September 2023, Tony Wade's remarkable entrepreneurial legacy continues to thrive.

The plaque holds great importance as it serves as a means to honour and acknowledge the outstanding contributions and exceptional accomplishments made by Black individuals in our community, who are frequently marginalized and underappreciated.