(This post has been updated for 2023)
The most-read posts on my blog are about the conversations surrounding diversity and inclusion within the influencer industry. The discussions surrounding race in the media aren’t new. But perhaps because of the rise of social media apps and the visibility it provides to marginalized communities, we continue to discuss it every year like clockwork. Heck, every time there’s a new influencer trip or ad campaign it seems to be just as triggering. Even recently, makeup giants like Tarte struggle with adding dark-skinned black women to their lineups. However, in the year 2023, it seems like black content creators are finally getting more shine.
After a historic surge in 2020 due to the Black Lives Matter movement, brands are hoping to do their part in creating a more equitable world. Initiatives such as Pull Up for Change or The 15% Pledge work with brands to put more Black leadership in their boardrooms and retail shelf space. Social media apps like Instagram and TikTok are working to highlight and foster Black talent to ensure we all get equal opportunities against a questionable algorithm. And these are just a few examples that are committed to inclusivity within the space. We have a LONG way to go, but I’m hopeful for the future of influencer marketing.
I previously shared about how we can make strides for more inclusion in media here. Advocating for black women particularly is a crucial step in the betterment of this space. And no, it’s not diversity for diversity’s sake (though that’s what a few extremists would have you believe.) The result can allow Black women a fair shot and a seat at a table for the conversations that help shape the beauty standards of the young, impressionable world. In addition to the systemic racism that plagues our community, the average moments of prejudice are born from ignorance. Exposing yourself to more diverse creators allows you to observe and support people from all walks of life. You’d be surprised what just a follow, like or share could do.
It never makes sense to me to exclude black women from the conversation. We’re trendsetters. Cultural icons. And I’ve always been a firm believer that diversity allows you to reach more people aka higher financial ROI. Shouldn’t brands want that as well? If you’ve ever complained about your feed looking the same, it’s time for an Instagram audit. Add in accounts that make you feel strong, inspired, and beautiful- no matter your background. At the end of the day, racism and prejudice affect everything and of course, this visual career of mine is no different. I’ll continue to use my platform to uplift other black women that I see are truly killing it and deserve their things! I’m proud to support these women below and hope you can all benefit from their content in 2023.
“Hello, it’s me.”-Adele but also Tomi Obebe. I’m proud of the audience I’ve built since 2015. The blog that started as an outlet has transformed into a full-time career. Similarly, my transition from solely fashion topics has evolved into tips for other inspiring creators, travel, and even my personal journey with chronic illness. In the years to come, you can expect a bit more of everything and it will only get better.
Janae is an LA-based lifestyle blogger with a focus on home decor and wellness. I love her creativity in video editing and her positive energy can quickly be felt through her Instagram stories.
If you love neutral tones and cozy chic, you’ll want to give Shawnaci a follow. The Midwest blogger is always on the go, and looks good doing it.
Skylar is a force to be reckoned with. Carefully pairing aesthetically pleasing shots with a faithful community that saves every piece of content to their #goals mood board.
Nzinga is an amazing source for current + aspiring vegans living it up in NYC! If you’re looking for curated content with a touch of amazing vegan food, you need to follow her account.
Traveling the world is a dream many people think is unattainable. Who has the time or the funds to make it as often as they would like? Cinneah blends her corporate lifestyle as a project manager while globetrotting to exciting new places for her audience to follow. With each trip, she shares her tips for how others (particularly women) can experience the same adventures around the world, regardless of their income.
Black girl magic personified as a content creator, it would be Chinyere. From fashion to lifestyle, the NYC-based influencer’s content is flawless.
As a mom of 2, Carmen is dedicated to sharing how to look and feel your best to women everywhere. The Texas blogger showcases everything from elevated looks to officewear to improving your home.
Another neutral style icon, Demi is the queen of the aesthetic shot. Follow for capsule-style, Chicago recommendations, and more from the influencer/engineer.
What can’t Dayna Bolden do? Between book deals, athleisure, and speaking engagements around the world, the mom of 2 makes balancing career and home life look effortlessly chic.
Initially followed for her work on Instagram’s team and as a fellow Nigerian, but I became obsessed with Joy Ofodu’s drive for success. Joy loves to poke fun at her dating life, reality tv drama, and Black culture through her comedic reels.
If the list could’ve been longer than 23, I would’ve featured each of these black women influencers individually. Each has its own successful brand and aesthetics, but together they’re unstoppable. Brandy, Shay, Meghan, and Nikki show a different side of Texas-livin’ and inspire women of all colors to live their best lives.
Life and style advice from this curvy blogger is always welcomed. Chichi lights up the screen with a smile and confidence whenever she steps on stories or your feed.
With sneaker culture growing larger every year, Melissa gives audiences an inside look at the best finds. The Charlotte-based influencer also started her own brand, Kicks and Fros, to celebrate Black women and culture!
If you could envision sunshine with a side of laughter, you would see Sofi! She is unapologetic about who she is and what she loves. Her confidence truly brightens my day, and her content reminds me to keep life fun.
Brittany is a boss woman at work and at home! As a boy mom and brand consultant to Fortune 500 companies, she slays the game. Whether you’re following her for mom advice, influencer tips or just because she is STUNNING, you will find the value in her content!
17: donYe taylor- (@donyetaylor)
Donye is what I like to call a marketing guru – she is a creative motivator in life and on Instagram! Her content will encourage and enlighten you.
Nana is all about empowering and uplifting Black women – can I get a heck yes? Not only does she run everystylish girl, but she is also a contributing editor at @nymag. To top it off – her content is very curated and absolutely gorgeous.
Shanna truly puts Black women first – she owns an influencer agency that focuses on helping Black creators succeed. She is also a successful influencer in her own right and kills it as a girl mom.
If you’ve watched Bridgerton and wished you could live in that world, meet Nikki. She is a London based content creator sharing romantic fashion, aesthetic inspo + travel content!
Oyin serves jaw-dropping looks with high quality imagery – what more could you ask for in a content creator? I always save her travel content because it is *goals*!
Recently obsessed and looking for new reads? Lola is your girl. She is a book-obsessed boy mom who also writes and promotes self-care which is SO important. Give her a follow for content you’re sure to enjoy.
If you’re looking up how to be THAT girl trademark, you’ll most likely find Monet. As one of the heavy hitters on gen-z Tiktok, Mcmichael shares beauty and lifestyle tips all while balancing nursing school. (My favorite content series are her hilarious self-waxing vlogs. ) Her editing skills are a step above the rest, making her short-form videos stand out from the crowd.
Do you remember when we used to watch Youtuber’s every move in the 2010s? GRWM, Prom Dress shopping, and other life achievements while captive audiences supported from our living rooms. Clarke’s content gives that sort of nostalgia. A calming presence as she takes us through her daily life in NYC as a student at Columbia. It’s not just the content we’ve come to adore but Clarke’s winning personality. We’ve followed her from the ground up, moving to luxury apartments as her following skyrockets. Clarke Peoples is the lifestyle influencer Black girls have been waiting for.
Alicia Tenise- (@AliciaTenise)
Nayamka Roberts-Smith- (@LaBeautyologist)
Whitney Madueke- (WhitneyMadueke)
Andrea Renee- (@andrearenee00)
Kimberly Douglas- (@Kihmberlie)
Amanda Johnson- (@SequinandSales)
Thamarr- (@musingsofacurvylady)
Nicole Green- (@whatnicolewore)
Ayana Lage- (@AyanaGabrielleLage)
Tennille Murphy- (@thetennillelife_)
Mattie James- (@TheMattieJames)
I hope you found a few new babes to add to your following list. Let me know your favorites below or if you knew them before this post!
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I love that we always find each other. So happy I knew about several of these ladies already and learned of some new ones.
I’m glad you found some new ones, too! 🤞🏾
Excited to check out these influencers and excited I already follow some of them and LOVE!
xoxo
Cathy, your Poor Little It Girl
https://poorlittleitgirl.com
I always love when you put together these lists! I’ve found so many amazing women to follow over the years because of you. Thanks, Tomi!
This is so nice to hear- Allison! Thank you!
I truly love the diversity of black women on this list! What a great post!
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it. :)
I’ve been following Chelsea for a while but so glad to be able to follow more amazing women from this post!!
Yay! That means so much, Alexis.