We reject the idea that solely the future belongs to women because we know that many aspects of the past, present and future are indebted to the work of Black women. In fact, young Black women specifically have been the catalysts for change across industries—whether it be media, beauty/fashion, tech, or entertainment. We do the work, we push to include other Black visionaries and we keep it real all the while.
We’re two weeks away from ESSENCE Girls United’s Virtual Summit, a digital activation that champions and empowers young movers and shakers. We’ve called on a number of voices, including Reginae Carter, Marsai Martin and many more, to talk about important topics and push the next generation of tastemakers to be all they can be. Ahead of summit, we highlighted 21 young women who are leading the revolution for a brighter future. Check out our list below.
Adebukola Ajao, founder of All Things Digital
LaShaunae Steward, model
Marley Dias, host of “Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices”/author
Elyse Fox, founder of Sad Gurls Club
Sage White, celebrity makeup artist
Kheris Rogers, creator of Flexin in My Complexion
Aaron Philip, model
Simi, founder of Seen Black Girls
Taylor Crumpton, journalist
Marsai Martin, actress/entrepreneur*
Najma Sharif, journalist
Asia Hall, CEO of Neon Cowboy
DonMonique, rapper*
Chelsea Miller, activist/entrepreneur
Makeda Sanford, photographer
Kashdoll, rapper*
Sonya Harris, clothing designer
Rashida Gayle, sports and entertainment agent
Jitarra Ellis, co-creator, ESSENCE x ULTA Beauty Girls United makeup collection*
Marz Lovejoy, model/writer
Renell Medrano, photographer
*indicates they will be participating in GU’s Virtual Summit.
Photo credit: YouTube