Ahhh to be young, gifted and BLACK. I don’t know about you but I believe African Americans should be celebrated every month for our influence everywhere. I mean c’mon, black people have been breaking glass ceilings for centuries but there’s something about the barriers that have been unfolded lately especially this year by black musicians, filmmakers, artisans, journalists, fashion designers and athletes. Check out these young, gifted and BLACK movers and shakers knocking down doors allowing a new generation of youth to aspire to reach new heights for themselves and their communities.
Virgil Abloah, ‘Off White’ CEO/Louis Vuitton Creative Director
The founder and creative visionary behind “Off White”, a Milan based fashion house, Virgil Abloah has been recently appointed as the new menswear designer for Louis Vuitton making him the first male of African decent to be given the prestigious role.
Black Panther
Need I say more. Exceeding all expectations by grossing over 600 million dollars in the box office, Black Panther was more than just Marvel film, it was a moment FOR US BY US. With an all African American all star casts, 31 year old Director Ryan Coogler proved that age isn’t overshadowed by talent.
Elaine Welteroth, Journalist/Activist
After earning her long overdue position as Editor and Chief of Teen Vogue, Elaine left her mark after 9 months of revolutionizing the publication in it’s entirety turning the brand into a house hold and open and safe digital space for women and teens of color. From politics, race, sex and fashion, Elaine is not afraid to address the most taboo topics which makes her every black girls’ virtual big sister.
Jordan Peele, Actor/Director
If you’re not familiar with Jordan Peele’s exceptional work as an actor and film maker, the ‘Get Out’ director earned a well deserving Oscar nomination and won for ‘Best Original Screenplay’ .With the esteemed win, Jordan became the first African American screenwriter to win for the category.
