The 2023 ESSENCE Girls United Disruptor Summit returned to Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, November 11, 2023 to celebrate all aspects of the Black experience focused on Zillenials and shine a line on those in their ‘Era of Disruption’ who are working to break the mold. Rechelle Dennis (Girls United Co-Founder & Lead) kicked off the festivities by welcoming attendees to the summit before passing the mic to host Rachel Jackson, who introduced the impressive lineup of talent including a panel discussion between sister-duo Jordyn and Jodie Woods, where they outlined what it means to work together while taking their business to new heights, a live taping with the season 5 cast of ‘If Not for My Girls’ with BIA, Muni Long and Pretty Vee, and a session on all things fashion and creativity with fashion designers Aleali May and Torianna Breaux.
Caroline Wanga and Rechelle Dennis
The event also featured popular stage appearances from internet sensation Aliyah’s Interlude, comedian Yung BBQ, and celebrity music engineer Brandra Ringo and offered dynamic programming moments like ‘Disrupt or Be Disrupted’ with Essence Ventures President & CEO Caroline Wanga and ‘On Strike’ by McDonald’s with Kenyatta Victoria, Marley Dias, J. Simmone, and Kamarie Brown.
The event attracted a number of celebrities and influencers interested in getting a look at the summit firsthand, including:
- TM Twins Taneeyah & Meniyah, Digital Creators & Influencers
- Karma Bridges, Executive Producer of Netflix’s Karma’s World
- Anisa Brenee, Lifestyle Influencer, Media Personality
- Phreshy, Influencer, Celebrity Publicist
- Tatiyana Blood, Celebrity Talent Manager
- DJ Tootz, Twin DJ Duo, Social Media Influencers
- Kayla Rivera, Latinx & Entertainment Blogger, Content Creator
Throughout the day, guests took advantage of interactive elements including speed mentorship sessions, a tooth gem station, a photo activation presented by Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar, airbrush tattoos and so much more. They were also able to shop and support a mix of Black-owned businesses at the Soko Marketplace.
To close out the day, Mariah The Scientist took to the stage and performed top hits including fan favorite, “Spread Thin.”
Editor in Chief of Essence Magazine Caroline Wanga
Rechelle Dennis
Haley Jones, Danielle Wright and Aliyah
Mariah The Scientist
Jordyn Woods and Jodie Woods
Muni Long
Marley Dias
Kamarie Brown
Meniyah Biscette and Taneeyah Biscette
Photo Credit: Paras Griffin for Getty Images for ESSENCE
