Beyond his photojournalism, Neil Kenlock co-founded some of the most influential and ground-breaking platforms in modern British media history.
root magazine
The UK's First High-End Black Lifestyle Publication
Following his extensive training at prestigious print houses on Fleet Street and working as a staff photographer for the West Indian World newspaper, Neil co-founded ROOT Magazine in 1979.
Launched from London's West End, ROOT broke records as the UK's very first high-end, glossy lifestyle magazine dedicated exclusively to representing the diverse, Black British population of the era. The publication acted as an essential training ground for both aspiring and seasoned Black media professionals, showcasing the work of talented models, writers, photographers, designers, and creatives.
The magazine blended high fashion and beauty with serious political current affairs.
choice fm radio
The UK’s First 24hr Commercial Licensed Black Music Station
In the late 1980s, Neil turned his entrepreneurial focus toward broadcasting, campaigning tirelessly alongside co-founder Patrick Berry and their talented team to secure a legal frequency that could directly service their community. On 31 March 1990, they made broadcasting history by launching Choice 96.9 FM from its original studios at 16-18 Trinity Gardens in Neil’s home town Brixton, South London.
Choice FM was Britain’s first and only 24hr commercial radio station granted a licence to cater specifically to the Black community in south London. It provided a daily shows of Reggae, Hip Hop, Soul, and Soca, offering a powerful source of cultural representation, and radio programming innovation. The station also provided a vital platform for alternative music and became a stepping stone for global stars, including Beyoncé and Brandy. Beyond music, Choice FM supported local businesses and covered vital debates on current affairs issues that were not discussed on mainstream stations.
Over its historic 23-year tenure, the station won numerous awards including Sony Radio Academy and MOBO Awards. In recognition of its massive, permanent contribution to British history, the original Trinity Gardens studio site was officially awarded a blue heritage plaque in 2021 to permanently commemorate its historical impact.