For the second year, NBCBLK, part of NBCNews.com, has released its NBCBLK28 list to honor young African-American leaders from a variety of fields across the country.
“It’s important to spotlight these millennials because they are the household names of tomorrow,” explained Amber Payne, Managing Editor of NBCBLK. “Our editorial mission at NBCBLK is to elevate the conversation on black identity, politics, and culture.”
The list features everyone from actors who are also activists, to a pro footballer who is a tech entrepreneur, to a doctor who views health care through the lens of social justice. It also aims to honor the nation’s most talented African-American innovators and game changers, ages 28 years and younger throughout the month of February. Many of these are the leaders that are making a difference across industries.
“This is our way of flipping Black History Month — instead of feeling like a throwback, this is forward looking,” stated Payne. “While we want to recognize and honor those who paved the way, we also want to be sure to look to the young people who are social and cultural disruptors.”
Each day in February, NBCBLK will feature one profile from the list, which includes notable entrepreneurs, policy makers, athletes, entertainers, activists and artists who are making a difference in their communities.
“We kicked off the month with Yara Shahidi because she really embodies this series,” Payne told DIVERGE. “She is an actress and Hollywood starlet, but she is also very intentional about the roles she chooses.”
NBCBLK will also host artist chats on Facebook Live and social media takeovers using the hashtag #NBCBLK28.
This year’s honorees include Chance the Rapper (Rapper/Activist), Kane Brown (Country Music Singer), Yara Shahidi (Actress), Michael Tubbs (Stockton, California’s first and youngest Black Mayor), Derrick Morgan (NFL Player – Tennessee Titans) and Claressa Shields (Olympian).
Honorees are chosen by NBC News broadcast and digital editorial staff and were selected because their accomplishments align closely with the NBCBLK mission – to elevate America’s conversation about Black identity, social issues and culture.
Payne added: “Diversity is important, but it can be a buzzword. Inclusion is key. We need to be included at the table and in the conversation. We need to be in the room. These profiles illustrate that our community is not monolithic.”
Users can view the entire list on nbcblk28.com or join the conversation on Twitter.
