From the pioneers of jazz and the Harlem Renaissance to today’s bold voices in content creation, food, fashion and beauty—the contributions of Black artists and thought leaders have always been at the forefront of revolutionizing today’s cultural landscape. The 2024 EBONY Power 100 Influential Creators, presented by Walmart, truly embody this notion in every sense of the word as they shake up the world while remaining rooted in their authentic selves.
Our honorees—Aaliyah Jay, Aurora James, Funny Marco, Jerald “Coop” Cooper, Kahlana Barfield Brown, Kamie Crawford, Keith Lee, Kwame Onwuachi, Sean Bankhead, Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald—consistently exude power through their creativity. Yet, despite their profound impact, the recognition of these individuals often remains insufficient. As we navigate a world increasingly driven by innovation and self-expression, it is more important than ever that we honor the brands and legacies these men and women are building.
“I feel like I bring power to my art by being my most unapologetic and daring self,” choreographer and creative director Sean Bankhead shared. “Anytime I approach my art with hesitation or a fear of what people may say or think is when I don’t create from my most authentic self. I’ve learned over the years to be bold and stand strong to the visions in my head. Those are the times it’s always received the best or when it goes the most viral.”
By amplifying voices and perspectives like Bankhead’s, we also pave the way for future generations to continue pushing boundaries and reshaping the world in ways only they can.
“One day you will be recognized for being exactly who you are, and everything you have been through will be what makes you so special,” 2024 honoree, content creator and host Kamie Crawford said when asked what she would tell her younger self as well as future generations that ultimately want to make their own mark on the creative world. “The tools you will need to overcome obstacles, break down doors and resonate with millions of people will come by experience and, at times, by what feels like rejection.”
Throughout her dynamic career, she has shown the power of perseverance, remaining true to yourself and doing things your way. Not only has she, along with our other ten influential creators, found the key to creating your own lane. She’s also serving as an inspiration to others who look like her.
“I would also tell anyone who wants to work in this space that rejection is God’s protection and redirection. You’re going to hear a lot of “NOs,” but you only need one “YES” to get where you’re going. Do your best to drown out the noise and the naysayers and break up with anyone who doesn’t believe in you and your dreams. Everyone can’t make it with you,” she added.
We couldn’t have said it better.
The EBONY team, along with Walmart, couldn’t be prouder to honor these eleven men and women who are consistently doing amazing work throughout the world. And we look forward to honoring the next wave of trailblazers and rule breakers that will come after them. When we pour into and invest in the dreams of young creatives, global culture will continue to shift. After all, the world hasn’t even begun to see what Black creativity is truly capable of because it’s still being written. But just know, it’s going to be epic.
