Penda, who died on 15 November 655, was a significant 7th-century king of Mercia, the Anglo-Saxon kingdom located in the Midlands. As a pagan during a time when Christianity was spreading across the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, Penda rose to power by defeating kings and establishing Mercian Supremacy over the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy. He notably defeated the powerful Northumbrian king Edwin and later killed his successor, Oswald, solidifying his position as one of the most powerful rulers of the time. Penda continued his conquests by defeating the East Angles and driving the king of Wessex into exile. However, his reign came to an end when he suffered a crushing defeat and was killed at the Battle of the Winwaed by Oswald's successor and brother, Oswiu. Penda's life is detailed in Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English People and the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, providing valuable insights into the history of the period. The etymology of the name Penda remains unknown, with suggestions of both Celtic and Germanic origins. Penda was the son of Pybba of Mercia, and his lineage was purportedly traced back to Wōden. His rise to power, battles, and familial connections are subjects of historical inquiry, contributing to a better understanding of early Anglo-Saxon history. Penda's influence is also evident in the numerous places in the West Midlands named after him and his family.

Penda Diakité, born in 1992, is a prominent Malian-American visual artist celebrated for her mixed-media collages and impactful film work. Growing up in Portland, Oregon, she split her time between the United States and Mali, West Africa. Diakité's art delves into the exploration of black female identity, often intertwining historical West African culture and traditions. With a rich artistic upbringing, she honed her skills in her parents' art studio, immersing herself in West African history and traditional Malian arts. Diakité's creative journey began at a young age when she published her first children's book and later delved into filmmaking under the mentorship of a documentary filmmaker. She furthered her education in film and video at the California Institute of the Arts and later relocated to Los Angeles to establish her career in the arts. Diakité's distinctive mixed-media collage work has garnered widespread recognition, while her thought-provoking film and video productions have been showcased in festivals globally. Her remarkable talent has been acknowledged through various awards and her work has been featured in prestigious publications. Notably, she has held several solo exhibitions, showcasing her captivating artistry. Penda Diakité continues to inspire and influence the art world with her unique perspective and powerful storytelling.