Before beauty influencers and Instagram marketing, Madame C.J. Walker laid the foundation for Black haircare. 

As the first self-made female millionaire in America, the philanthropist and social activist created a line of hair products and cosmetics tailored to the needs of Black women, transforming an underserved market. Her legacy lives on, inspiring countless beauty brands that cater to textured hair today.  

Founded by industry legend Berry Gordy in 1959, Motown became more than a record label—it became a cultural powerhouse. 

By crafting a polished crossover sound, Motown propelled Black artists like Diana Ross and The Supremes, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder into mainstream success. The label's impact is still felt today, changing how Black music is marketed and appreciated worldwide.

“For Us, By Us” wasn’t just a slogan—it was a movement. Daymond John’s FUBU took hip-hop fashion from the streets to the global stage, revolutionizing streetwear by centering Black culture and style at a time when mainstream fashion largely ignored the urban market. From LL Cool J’s iconic Gap commercial sporting a FUBU hat to global recognition, the brand proved that hip-hop wasn’t just music—it was a lifestyle.

When Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in September 2017, she didn’t just introduce another makeup line—she changed the industry. With 40 foundation shades (now expanded to over 50), Fenty Beauty set a new standard for inclusivity, forcing major beauty brands to expand their shade ranges.

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Known as the “Mother of Makeup,” British makeup Pat McGrath has been shaping the beauty industry for decades, working behind the scenes at runway shows and leading makeup trends since the 80s.

But when she launched Pat McGrath Labs in 2015, she took luxury cosmetics to a new level. Her brand shattered records, and her beauty company was valued at over $1 billion. From ultra-pigmented eyeshadows to high-impact lipsticks, McGrath redefined what high-fashion beauty looks like while celebrating diversity on a global scale.

Plant-based eating met unapologetic branding when Pinky Cole launched Slutty Vegan in Atlanta. More than just a vegan burger spot, the business became a cultural phenomenon, showing that plant-based food could be flavorful, accessible, and fun. Cole’s approach to business and community outreach has turned Slutty Vegan into a national sensation.

In a world where exclusivity often defines high fashion, Telfar Clemens built a brand that thrives on accessibility. 

The Telfar Shopping Bag, affectionately known as the “Bushwick Birkin,” became a viral sensation, selling out within minutes of restocks. By rejecting traditional gatekeeping in the luxury industry, Telfar has redefined what it means to be a luxury brand. Telfar has since collaborated with several brands and retailers like Ugg and has been promoted by several industry figures, including Lil Kim, Cardi B, Gayle King, and more.

Robert L. Johnson launched BET in 1980, creating the first Black-owned cable network. From “106 & Park” to the BET Awards, the channel became a cultural staple and a vital platform for Black voices in entertainment.

Ebony and Jet magazines were staples in Black households for decades, thanks to John H. Johnson and the Johnson Publishing Company. These publications provided much-needed representation, showcasing Black excellence in entertainment, politics, and business. At a time when mainstream media overlooked Black stories, Johnson Publishing gave the culture a voice and a platform.