BLACK ENTERPRISE Announces The 2023 40 Under 40 List

In its third consecutive year, the 2023 list highlights the outstanding achievements of young Black leaders within various industries and disciplines, from politics to creative arts to STEM

BLACK ENTERPRISE released its highly anticipated 40 Under 40 List for the class of 2023. This latest cohort of Black trailblazers, visionaries, and game-changers in a variety of industries are being celebrated for their considerable achievement.

The honorees are being recognized for their leadership and groundbreaking innovation in the realms of technology, business, sports, entertainment, fashion and beauty, and political and social impact. The recipients are not only public figures renowned across the world, but also everyday heroes enacting change to better all livelihoods.

BLACK ENTERPRISE CEO and President Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr. released a statement on the honoring of these remarkable individuals for their “boundless potential.”

“BLACK ENTERPRISE‘s 40 Under 40 list is not just a celebration of individual success but a testament to the boundless potential within our community,” shared Graves, Jr.

“This announcement serves as a powerful reminder that Black excellence knows no bounds and that, collectively, we are charting an extraordinary course toward a brighter, more inclusive future.”

The Class of 2023 was also able to nominate themselves or others to be recognized for their positive efforts. Among those being bestowed this honor are Quinta Brunson, actress and creator of the TV series Abbott Elementary, Laquan Smith, designer and founder of his eponymously-named fashion brand, and Rashad Bilal, co-founder and CEO of Earn Your Leisure.

Past recipients have included sports journalist Taylor Rooks and Slutty Vegan founder Aisha “Pinky” Cole. Their resilience and determination to become forces in their industries is as important as ever to celebrate, especially as Black people pave the way for future generations.

“These outstanding individuals are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders of today, actively shaping industries and driving change,” expressed Selena Hill, Deputy Digital Editor of the platform.

“After curating this list with my colleagues, I’m delighted to celebrate the limitless opportunities that lie ahead for each of the honorees. Their stories are a source of inspiration, illustrating the immense potential that exists when passion meets purpose.”

The honorees will be recognized in a private, Nationwide-sponsored reception, taking place on Sunday, Dec. 10.