ESSENCE Celebrates Trailblazing Black Women in Business, Championing Self-Made Success
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A new era of empowerment is unfolding as Black women redefine business leadership, and ESSENCE magazine recently spotlighted six exceptional figures who embody this transformative shift. On Thursday, October 9, ESSENCE hosted an intimate celebration recognizing not only the achievements of these women but also the pathways they’ve forged for future generations.
Honoring Visionaries: The 2024 ESSENCE Black Women in business Awards
The ESSENCE Black Women in Business awards, presented by L’Oréal Groupe, honored a diverse group of leaders. Patti LaBelle received the Icon Award, recognizing her enduring legacy in music and entrepreneurship, while Keia Clarke, CEO of the New York Liberty, was celebrated for leading the team to their first WNBA championship.Also honored were Janice Burns, Monica Turner, Valeisha Butterfield, and Cheryl Porter, each a leader in their respective fields, all achieving success on their own terms.
The Economic Impact of Black Women-Owned Businesses
The significance of this celebration extends beyond individual accolades. The event took place during a period of remarkable growth for Black women in the business world. Currently, Black women-owned businesses employ over 647,000 people and generate nearly $119 billion in revenue. Notably, Black women represent 42% of net new women-owned businesses in the U.S.,a figure three times greater than their proportion of the overall female population. Though, the honorees emphasized that success isn’t solely about numbers; it’s about overcoming systemic obstacles and creating spaces where Black women can thrive.
Keia Clarke: From ESSENCE Reader to WNBA champion
Keia Clarke, CEO of the New York Liberty, exemplified this spirit of perseverance and community. Leading the team to their first WNBA championship in 2024 – ending a 52-year drought for New York City – Clarke shared how ESSENCE magazine played a formative role in her aspirations.”It was one the first places where I saw women who looked like me and they were celebrated for power and they were celebrated for their drive. And I wanted that,” she recalled, remembering sneaking peeks at her aunt’s copy as a young girl. Clarke attributed her success to a strong support network, stating, “Today it’s only possible that we’ve seen the success that we’ve had, and I’ve had the success that I’ve had, because of a strong village.”
Patti LaBelle: A Legacy of Empowerment
The “Godmother of Soul,” Patti LaBelle,brought her characteristic warmth and wisdom to the event.Having sold over 50 million records and expanded her brand into the lifestyle product line,Patti’s Good Life,LaBelle remains focused on paving the way for future generations. “I always say when I wake up every morning, I could do better,” she said, “And make it an easier world for Black women.” Her humility was evident as she acknowledged the accomplishments of her fellow honorees, remarking, “I’m 81 years young and still learning.” LaBelle powerfully asserted, “Women, we’re doing it for ourselves.”
Beyond Individual Success: A Collective Force
Alongside LaBelle, Clarke, and Burns, the event also celebrated the achievements of monica Turner, President of North America at Procter & Gamble; Valeisha Butterfield, founder of SEED and a veteran of the Obama Administration and Google, championing tech inclusion; and Cheryl Porter, the entrepreneur behind a globally recognized vocal training method with over 45 million followers.
“Black Women in Business is both a tribute and a torch for women who carry legacy in one hand and possibility in the other,” explained Michele Ghee, ESSENCE’s Chief Content Officer.
For over 50 years, ESSENCE has been dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black women, recognizing that depiction is crucial, achievements deserve celebration, and the next generation needs to witness what’s possible. The ceremony will stream online on October 16, offering a wider audience the opportunity to experience these inspiring moments.
