ESSENCE VENTURES ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF
ESSENCE COMMUNICATIONS FROM TIME INC.

Essence Ventures LLC, an independent African-American owned company focused on merging content, community, and commerce, recently announced that it acquired Essence Communications Inc. from Time Inc. ESSENCE President Michelle Ebanks will continue at the helm of the company and join its board of directors. In addition, ESSENCE’s executive team, comprised of Black women, will also have an equity stake in the business.

Since its founding in 1970, ESSENCE has been a hallmark of women’s empowerment and a beacon of pride and celebration of the diverse images and lifestyles of Black women. Currently, the company reaches a global audience of more than 16 million across various platforms, including its print magazine; digital, video and social platforms; television specials, books; and live events, including the Street Style Block Party during New York Fashion Week and the annual ESSENCE Festival, a cultural celebration attracting more than 450,000 attendees.

“This acquisition of ESSENCE represents the beginning of an exciting transformation of our iconic brand as it evolves to serve the needs and interests of multigenerational Black women around the world in an even more elevated and comprehensive way,” said Ebanks. “In addition, it represents a critical recognition and elevation of the Black women running the business from solely a leadership position to a co-ownership position.”

With Essence Ventures’ investment in the company, ESSENCE will focus on growing its digital businesses via distribution partnerships, compelling original content, and targeted client-first strategies. The brand will also expand its growth into global markets with women who have shared interests and aspirations. “The strategic vision and leadership that Michelle has provided to ESSENCE over the years have been exemplary, and we are thrilled to work with her and her talented team to provide the necessary resources and support to grow the engagement and influence of the ESSENCE brand and transform this business,” said Richelieu Dennis, founder and chairperson of Essence Ventures. “As importantly, we are excited to be able to return this culturally relevant and historically significant platform to ownership by the people and the consumers whom it serves and offers new opportunities for the women leading the business to also be partners in the business.”

 

OTHER NEWS

MAY IS LUPUS AWARENESS MONTH

Have you noticed a lot of people donning the color purple this month? It could be because May is Lupus Awareness Month. “Pump up the Purple” is the call to action for a campaign to raise awareness and funds for lupus research and education programs.

Lupus is a chronic auto-immune disease that can adversely impact many parts of the body. There are several different kinds of lupus, and no two cases are alike.

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE: I AM THE CHANGE FORUM

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE: I AM THE CHANGE FORUM

Please join the Black Women’s Agenda, AARP and the National Collaborating Organizations, as we discuss the new realities of African American Women and modern aging. This forum is designed to inspire women to live their best life.

TWITTER

Join the Conversation
Load More

INSTAGRAM

Check us out!

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones with Vaccines! 💉

Vaccines are your best defense against serious illnesses. Stay up to date on your:

✔️ Flu Shot
✔️ COVID-19 Booster
✔️ RSV Vaccine

Let’s work together to keep our communities safe and healthy.

Talk to your healthcare provider today!

#VaccinesWork #StayProtected #RiskLessDoMore

Paid Partnership
...

📢 Tonight`s the Night! Join us for an Important Townhall Webinar!

Don’t miss @theblackwomensagendainc and a panel of distinguished experts discussing “I Am The Change: Vaccines For Your Best Health” 🌍.

This Town Hall will increase awareness of critical prevention, testing, and treatment resources for respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

🗓️ Date: November 12th
🕣 Time: 8:30 pm ET

Let’s work together to stay informed and healthy. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_C5pIyDF8Swmsayy8PiMT2Q

#RiskLessDoMore #VaccinesForYourBestHealth #IAmTheChange #BWAInc
...

You inspired. You encouraged. You remained steadfast.

We thank you being you.

"The fight for the ideals that reflect America at its best: Freedom, opportunity, fairness, and dignity. That is a fight I will never give up." - Vice President Kamala Harris, 2024 Presidential Candidate
...

Voting is still taking place in cities across the country. If you are in line, STAY IN LINE. You can cast your vote if you are in line before the polls close.

If you encounter any issues, please call the Voter Assistance Hotline immediately:
833-336-8683

#YourVoteMatters
#YourVoteIsYourVoice
...

We Are STRONGER Together! Every Woman in our country deserves to live freely and safely without fear of her health being criminalized.

As you prepare to go to the polls, remember the words shared here... I am one of them...

Your Vote is Your Voice. WE have the power to protect the rights of women in every community across OUR country!

#vote
...

© 2019 The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy