Issa rae
32 l Actress, Producer
2016 was an amazing year for “Awkward Black Girl”, Issa Rae. The L.A. native’s popular web-series which is now an HBO comedy, Insecure, has struck a nerve for all Black girls around the globe. Rae’s journey throughout the show depicts honest portrayals of being a Black woman, when she is faced with everyday struggles and anxieties universal enough for anyone to relate to. Issa Rae’s character embodies the idea that black women are multifaceted and cannot be boxed in.
Zendaya
20 l Actress
Zendaya Coleman exudes grace and poise as she speaks out about the racism that goes on in the entertainment industry. The young actress demands to be heard when it comes to colorism and her role as a young African American actress. Emerging as a positive voice and figure for young girls everywhere, Zendaya continues to shed light on important topics that need to be discussed…with class and style, of course.
Morgan Debaun
24 I Founder & CEO of Blavity
During a time when diverse blogging platforms were scarce, Morgan Debaun launched a site that changed the dynamics of writing, for the Black Culture. Founded in July of 2014, Blavity had began bridging the gap between content and technology. This media outlet reflects the voices of young Black Millenials who can and will be heard.
As Hip-Hop Cutlure continues to expand its global influence… Blavity presents a unique opportunity to shape a new narrative around what Young African Americans consider cool, trendy and cutting edge.
Victory Jones & Tori Elizabeth
Founders of The Colored Girl, inc.
Colorism and racism inspired these two women to start the ‘Colored Girl’ Project.
CEO & Founder’s Tori Elizabeth and Victory Jones, founded The Colored Girl inc. which is a campaign celebrating the beauty of Black women, of all colors and features. They are planning a documentary and panel discussions to help spread awareness to the campaign. TCG shatters stereotypes and even challenges the industry’s standards of beauty.