Power 40

Challenging the status quo is second nature to Chandra Vasser. As the Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at Nissan Americas, and President of the Nissan Foundation, Vasser has helped to profoundly reshape corporate culture. Her leadership centers around creating equitable spaces where underrepresented voices are not only heard but also empowered. Her efforts continue to inspire transformative action, ensuring that equity is not just an initiative but a core value. “Sometimes I’ve been the first, and that’s okay, but I shouldn’t be the last,” Vasser says.

“So I’m making sure that I’m paving the way for others to come behind me.”

Celessa Baker is the creative genius behind the flawless faces and cutting-edge products at Sephora. As a trailblazer in the beauty industry, she has expertise in brand strategy and an ability to spot trends; these have helped elevate Sephora’s offerings to new heights. “I feel strongly that good leadership is an investment in individuals,” says Baker.

“Pushing when necessary, providing coverage when needed, and rolling up your sleeves and doing the work with them.”

Crystal Vinisse Thomas’s ability to blend luxury with authenticity has solidified her reputation as a visionary in the hospitality industry. Through her strategic leadership at Hyatt, she has overseen the development and growth of some of the most iconic hotel experiences worldwide. The next time you’re enjoying your stay at a Hyatt, know her magic is sprinkled somewhere within those walls.

“As a Black woman who’s often either the only Black face, the only woman or the only Black woman on the Zoom or in a meeting, I’m constantly reminded of how important —and rare—my voice and perspective are, among a sea of others with seemingly similar life experiences,” Thomas says.

If you look up the definition of “powerhouse,” you might find a picture of Dasha Smith, who holds one of the most influential roles in the world of sports management. As the highestranking Black woman executive at the league office in the NFL, Smith displays leadership encompassing a wide range of responsibilities, from human resources to workplace culture; this makes her instrumental in guiding the league’s strategic direction.

“My goal,” she says, “is to have contributed to a more equitable and inclusive environment in the sports industry— one that will benefit the next generation of leaders, including perhaps my own two children one day, ensuring that the NFL remains a positive force in society.”

Playing a crucial role in shaping the narrative for one of the world’s most iconic sports brands is no big deal, right? Well, actually, it’s major. As Public Relations Director of Adidas North America, Makeda Njie has masterfully navigated the intersection of sports, culture and media, making sure the brand stays at the forefront of global conversations. “I think one of the most important questions for anyone in my position is, ‘How do you stay true to yourself while representing a major brand?’” says Njie.

“For me, it’s about finding that sweet spot where brand goals and personal values intersect.”

Revolutionizing the spirits industry one investment at a time, Dia Simms and Erin J. Hall are setting new standards as cofounders of Pronghorn, an incubator committed to increasing diversity in the alcoholic-beverage space. Through Pronghorn, Simms and Hall are proving that equity, empowerment and innovation can mix well together, with tasty results. “I’m fueled by a relentless drive to challenge the status quo and create meaningful change, within our industry and far beyond,” says Hall.

Simms agrees: “Every day is another opportunity to do the work of making dreams come true.”

When you say Calvin Butler’s name, make sure you put some respect on it. A dynamo in the energy sector, Butler is head of Exelon, the nation’s largest utility company by customer count. He is one of only eight Black CEOs leading Fortune 500 companies; they account for just 1.6 percent of all Fortune 500 CEOs. Under his direction, Exelon has not only achieved business success but has played a pivotal role in advancing the transition to a more sustainable energy future. “As I have advanced through my career, there are two things that I have kept consistent,” says Butler.

“First, I push myself to deliver at the highest level. Second, always be ready to lead. You never know when the next opportunity may come your way.”

Juanita Slappy exemplifies the phrase “doing it for the culture.” And as Head of Multicultural Marketing for Cadillac, she ensures that the company is synonymous with that as well. She’s at the forefront of efforts to engage with diverse audiences, and her innovative campaigns have set new standards for inclusivity in the automotive industry. Don’t believe us? Check her résumé.

“Being a servant leader—and leaning into people’s different communication styles and supporting that diversity of thought—is very important to me,” Slappy says.

Imagine playing a pivotal role in elevating the visibility of Black voices and narratives across media platforms for one of the largest tech companies in the world. How about doing it all before the age of 40? Ask Nikki Forman to show you the way. With a career rooted in communications and cultural advocacy, Forman has been instrumental in fostering strong media connections between Amazon and the Black community. “This may sound cliché, but I’ve always found joy in the idea that I can leave the world a better place than I found it,” she says.

“I hope to be remembered for my commitment to kindness and integrity, and I want to inspire those around me to lead lives of authenticity and compassion.”

Breaking boundaries in the world of sports representation, Rich Paul has become a standout agent whose impact extends beyond the basketball court. The founder of Klutch Sports Group, he advocates for athletes—securing groundbreaking contracts and endorsements for some of the biggest names in the NBA and NFL. His rise from humble beginnings to a position representing superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis is a testament to his tenacity and his belief in player empowerment.

“I’ve found that by being open about my own experiences, I can help others see new opportunities for themselves,” Paul states.

Danessa Myricks is the founder and CEO of the eponymous Danessa Myricks Beauty. Her brand has become known for its creativity and inclusivity, with products that cater to all skin tones and textures. Myricks is a self-taught makeup artist; she leveraged her passion for her craft to build a line that empowers people to express themselves boldly and beautifully. “The industry has struggled with the idea of inclusion,” Myricks says.

“Although there has been some progress, there is so much more work to be done. I’ve raised my hand to be an agent for change.”

There is wine, and then there is IBest Wines. The brand’s premium selections reflect Ingrid Best’s deep expertise and passion for the beverage. Best has long been a key player in developing and marketing some of the industry’s most recognized brands. “Community is so important to me,” she says.

“How do we make sure we are influencing people to think differently about their businesses, and about equity and support for their employees?”

Thanks to Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye, Black women consumers can breathe a bit easier. Why? Because with Ami Colé, she has created a line that celebrates and caters to the needs of deeper skin tones, filling a void in the clean-beauty market. “I created this brand with the culture top of mind,” says N’Diaye-Mbaye.

“Growing up in Harlem at my mother’s African hair-braiding salon, I was surrounded by women transforming the culture through the art of hair styling, the rich conversations about subjects sacred to us and the vibrant spirit of Harlem in the early 90s.”

If food is the way to one’s heart, then Warren Thompson had us hooked from his first restaurant. A leader in the hospitality industry, he is the CEO of Thompson Hospitality, one of the largest minority-owned food businesses in the United States. In the D.C., area, he is the leader behind restaurants such as Milk & Honey, Hen Quarter and Makers Union. “There is a clear attack on DE&I, and it is having an impact on the perception of Black-owned businesses,” says Thompson.

“We have to promote our business based on truly believing that we can do the job better than anyone else.”

A dynamic leader focused on closing the racial wealth gap and achieving economic liberation for the Black community, Johnny Bailey is the founder of the ShineHard Network—an organization of entrepreneurs and thought leaders committed to Black excellence. He’s also the founder of Black Golf Club DC, which provides resources, networking opportunities and skills-building to underrepresented entrepreneurs. His dedication to mentorship highlights his commitment to developing future generations of Black leaders. “I believe every human’s greater purpose is found in self-actualization and legacy,”

Bailey says, “so I treat people as if they are who they ought to be, in hopes that it can help them to become who they are capable of being.”

There are new faces on the golf course, thanks to Sierra Balgar and her City Girls Golf, founded in 2023 to offer a more inclusive space for women of color interested in the sport. Recognizing the barriers that have historically excluded us from the putting green, Balgar built a community that teaches the game while fostering networking and personal development. “Take the leap of faith,” she says.

“I didn’t grow up playing golf. I was introduced to later on, and it was like, Hey, this is something that’s cool.”

Black tech is alive and well, and Garry Cooper is one of the people we have to thank for that. The CEO and cofounder of Rheaply, a platform that helps organizations manage their resources more efficiently, has become a critical player in sustainability, driving solutions that reduce waste and maximize value. Cooper’s vision extends beyond business as he aims to create a more equitable world.

“My career objective, and my daily objective,” he says, “is to make the world more sustainable and diverse.”

The LeBron James of marketing, Kimberly Blackwell doesn’t just do one thing well—she’s exceptional at everything. Her brainchild, PMM Agency, is now a leading marketing firm specializing in multicultural strategy; it has become a go-to agency for brands looking to connect with diverse audiences. Blackwell’s strategic vision has transformed PMM into a leader in amplifying voices and stories that reflect the richness of Black culture.

“I build. I broker. I brand. I find. I finance. I fix,” Blackwell says.

A cultural architect in the music industry, Tuma Basa is known for his deep knowledge of the field and his keen ability to spot trends. It’s so easy for him, he could likely do it in his sleep. His work at YouTube involves curating content that celebrates the richness of Black culture while providing a platform for emerging artists; thus he plays a crucial role in shaping the landscape of Black music on digital platforms. “It’s so much deeper than the music,” says Basa.

“It’s about the opportunity. When people would present their music or submit their music for consideration for any kind of opportunity, I never looked at it as if they were submitting their music—they were submitting their dreams.”

Not familiar with Barry Johnson and Zeke Nicholson? Rest assured, you won’t forget them now. The creative minds behind SinceThe80s— a music-management company and record label that has become a breeding ground for some of today’s most exciting artists—they have a forward-thinking approach to artist development that blends traditional talent management with innovative marketing strategies. “I’m just fulfilling my purpose— and I believe that if you do the same, you don’t need to worry about legacy, because the energy continues to move on,” says Johnson.

Adds Nicholson: “I don’t think it’s about always being in control, or making the decisions, but understanding the framework of a team and how to guide a team to success.”

Jenifer Smith is a force to be reckoned with. Watching how the a strategic leader in the live-music industry operates, we’re often left wondering how many hours she actually has in her day—because it’s clearly more than 24. With a deep understanding of the urban-music landscape, Smith has successfully marketed and promoted some of the biggest tours in the world. “There’s something truly special about creating experiences that connect artists with their audiences,” she says.

“Being part of that magic is what keeps me energized. I love seeing the excitement on fans’ faces, knowing that I played a role in bringing their favorite acts to life.”

A key player in policymaking in the Biden administration, Erica Loewe is instrumental in advancing the administration’s agenda on equity, justice and inclusion. “The great philosopher Shawn Corey Carter summed it up when he said, ‘We measure success by how many people are successful next to you,’

”Loewe says. “I couldn’t agree more.”

Trailblazer. Advocate. Public servant. If you were looking for words to describe Wes Moore, these would be listed next to his name. Having made history as the first Black Governor of Maryland, he has had a distinguished career in public service, business and the military—bringing a deep commitment to equity and opportunity for all Marylanders.

“If you never forget what you’re fighting for,” Moore says, “you’ll never stop fighting.”

Jasmine Crockett, a rising star in American politics, represents Texas’s 30th Congressional District; she is known for her fierce advocacy on issues like voting rights, criminal justice reform and economic equity. “I serve at the pleasure of the people that put me into position, but the seat will never be mine,” says the Congresswoman.

“The seat belongs to the people.”

Nicole Austin-Hillery is leading the charge for Black political empowerment through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF). With a background in civil rights advocacy and public policy, she has dedicated her career to advancing social justice and economic opportunity for Black Americans.

“I will continue to love the Black community,” says Austin-Hillery, “and want the Black community to receive all the promises that were made to every American for equal opportunity.”

Jotaka Eaddy takes her love of Black women very seriously. The political hotshot founded #WinWithBlackWomen, a national movement amplifying our voices and impact across industries. “I hope that people will look back and say that I did something positive with all that God gave me,” says Eaddy.

“I understand that I have a calling in my life—to do something to honor the long legacy of leaders who came before me.”

Chances are, even if you don’t know Tanya Lombard’s name, you’ve been touched by her work. The phrase “lift as she climbs” is an appropriate descriptor, as she has played a critical role in building bridges between the public and private sectors.

“The incomparable Angela Davis once said, ‘I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept,’ ” says Lombard. “This philosophy empowers me.”

As the founder of Nation Strategies, Chaka Burgess has leveraged his expertise in political and corporate strategy. Specializing in advocacy, public policy and industry partnerships, he is a major voice for businesses and policymakers looking to bridge economic and social divides.

“One of my core missions is to open doors for those coming up behind me,” explains Burgess.

The Black community is a little bit more informed about money thanks to Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings. The podcast duo have not only increased financial literacy with their platform, Earn Your Leisure, but they’ve equipped generations to come with tools for financial freedom. “A big lesson I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t just about making decisions, it’s about inspiring people to believe in themselves and their goals,” says Bilal.

Adds Millings: “I pray our legacy is one rooted in democratizing financial education—and promoting economic empowerment and generational wealth creation for the world.”

Changing the face of advertising with every project, Tara DeVeaux sets new standards in creative leadership. As CEO of Burrell Communications, a premier multicultural marketing agency, DeVeaux has a visionary approach that keeps Black voices and stories at the forefront of global narratives.

“I just want people to feel better having known me,” DeVeaux says.

When Monet McMichael speaks, the Internet listens. Having quickly risen as a leading voice in fashion and lifestyle, she has captivated millions with her relatable content and individual style. “I still love the connection I feel to real-life people who share their lives on the YouTube platform,” she says.

“I think that has allowed me to feel confident and excited to share my life, knowing how much others have inspired and uplifted me through their content.”

Most days, we don’t know if Speedy Morman is a stand-up comedian, a media personality or a contestant on The Bachelor. What we do know is that as an on-camera host, journalist and executive producer, he has built a reputation for insightful questions and for an ability to connect with his audience. And if you’ve ever seen him on TikTok, you know he’s also great for all-around laughs. “Staying authentic has never been an issue for me,” says Morman.

“Whether I’m sitting with President Biden or Cardi B, my approach, wardrobe and pattern of speech is unwavering.”

Can you imagine making a living “doing it for the culture?” TJ Adeshola is achieving that dream. In his role at Arctos Partners, Adeshola works at the intersection of sports, media and culture, focusing on empowering sports organizations with capital and strategic guidance. “The global sports industry is valued at nearly $500 billion, yet a significant gap often exists between the executive decision-makers driving the business and the very culture that fuels it,” says Adeshola.

“Every day, I challenge myself to bridge that gap.”