A 2021 report found that the pay gap between white and Black influencers is 35%, spotlighting a lack of diversity in marketing.
And while many brands are now seeking to collaborate with more Black creators on social media, it's important it doesn't become a one-off checkbox exercise.
Instead, look to create diverse campaigns, speaker lineups, and partnerships year-round.
To learn how to create a more inclusive marketing strategy, watch our workshop with strategist Sonia Thompson:
35 Black Creators on Social Media to Follow in 2023:
From wellness influencers to fashionistas, we’re sharing 35 Black creators on social media to follow, learn from, support, and work with. This list is just the tip of the iceberg.
#1: Michell C. Clark
Michell C. Clark is an author and strategist who’s committed to helping creatives better themselves and the world.
With over 400K followers (and counting) on Instagram, his inspiring quotes and affirmations are typically paired with a calming background and audio track. Simple, yet effective.
Michell recently spoke at our digital event, Reel Talk, about being consistent on Instagram, and the tools he uses to elevate his thoughts and ideas. Watch the replay here.
#2: Tomi Obebe
As a full-time content creator and blogger, Tomi Obebe advocates for representation in the influencer marketing industry and wants to inspire women of color to "get the same opportunities I've been afforded."
From day-in-the-life content to tips for monetizing on Instagram, Tomi frequently shares how to grow and succeed as a Micro creator.
We interviewed Tomi about becoming a full-time creator — including a breakdown of her multiple revenue streams: How to Become a Full-time Content Creator
#3: Brandon Smithwrick
"Create content that helps solves problems," is one of Brandon Smithwrick's go-to pieces of advice for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands.
As the former Sr. Content Strategist at Squarespace and the new Head of Content at Songfinch, Brandon uses his platform to share impactful marketing tips and insights.
At LaterCon 2021, Brandon led a session about the importance of leveraging your social media analytics. Watch it here: How to Develop a Winning Content Marketing Strategy
#4: Kay Walker
Storyteller and slow life enthusiast, Kay Walker, is all about "capturing the beauty in places, spaces, and moments in between."
One glance at her feed, and you know she's hit the mark.
Whether it's the use of soft neutrals in her content or opening up about her mental health, Kay is a go-to for travel inspiration and all things self-care.
Did you know: Later is a social media scheduling tool trusted by over 4M marketers, businesses, and social media managers. Sign up and get started, today:
#5: Chrissy Rutherford
Chrissy Rutherford is an influential voice in the content creator space — whether it's through her fashion expertise, championing conversations about mental health, or anti-racism consulting.
Not only has she partnered with notable brands like Maybelline, but she also has a newsletter exploring themes of self-worth, romance, and so much more.
We interviewed Chrissy for our What’s On Your Screen? series. Learn all about her content creator journey here: How Chrissy Rutherford Became a Full-time Creator — Without A Team
#6: Jam Gamble
Public speaking coach and media personality, Jam Gamble, is well-known for her energetic and welcoming personality.
But her dedication to empowering others to own their voice with her Slay The Mic program is where she really shines.
Whether it's learning how to show up on social media or building your brand, Jam's got all of the tips.
Last year, Jam moderated a Later panel speaking to supporting Black creators and businesses. Watch the replay: Ways to Help: Support Black Owned Businesses and Creators (Year-Round!)
And ICYMI: In 2021 and 2022, we recommended a slew of Black creators you could learn from and work with. Here’s a reminder of who they are:
#7: DonYé Taylor — Creator, Ideator, Marketer, and Consultant
#8: Thaddeus Coates — Illustrator, Animator, and Model
#9: Mahdi Woodard — Marketing Strategist and Entrepreneurship Coach
#10: Myla AKA Pradaolic — Creator, Makeup Artist, and Model
#11: Amber Burns — Content Creator and Writer
#12: Joy Ofodu — Creator and Voiceover Artist
#13: Malcolm Regisford — Content Creator
#14: Fatou B. Barry — Brand Strategist
#15: RK Jackson — Creative Director and Social Strategist
#16: Lowe Saddler — Blogger and Lifestyle Creator
#17: Damar Little — Photographer and Graphic Designer
#18: Kelsey-Marie — Creator, Visual Artist, and Writer
#19: Jayde I. Powell — Marketing Strategist and Content Creator
#20: Francheska Medina, Dustin Ross & Assanté Smith — Hosts of The Friend Zone Podcast
#21: Nana Agyemang — Creator and CEO of EveryStylishGirl
#22: Erin Ashley Simon — E-sports/Gaming Host and Influencer
#23: Justin Shiels — Creative Director and Illustrator
#24: Polly Irungu — Founder of Black Women Photographers
#25: Evelyn Escobar-Thomas — Creator and Founder of Hike Clerb
#26: Rōze Traore — Chef and Food Influencer
#27: The Oddity — Digital Creator
#28: Kim Knight and Shanelle McKenzie — Founders of The Villij
#29: Alex Wolf — Business and Tech Thought Leader, Investor, and Author
#30: Nicholas Bailey — Tech Director, Blogger, and Photographer
#31: Shannae Ingleton Smith — Fashion Influencer and Agency Owner
#32: Isis Woods — Business Coach
#33: Whitney Headen and Tahira White — Founders of 19th & Park, Inc.
#34: Medina Grillo — Interior Design Influencer and Author
#35: Jaimmy Koroma — Body Positivity Influencer
As the creator economy continues to grow, and brand collaborations become more popular, being inclusive is key.
Working with diverse voices not only lets you tap into different audiences but is a better representation of society as a whole.
Once your campaigns are set, Later can be used to help plan and schedule your upcoming social media posts. Get started today — for free!
