Affirmations have the power to change everything around you if you just believe. With your words, you can immediately tap into a new belief system that can shift your life like never before. Creative director J. Ivory is a self-proclaimed Affirmations Queen who is known for being a visual storyteller and manifesting the life God has for her. In doing so, she has learned there is so much power in words and even more so in spoken words.
“The words we speak can either hurt us or heal us. I believe that your words are the most powerful weapon that our humanity has. Believe it or not, you are the very result of the words you have spoken over your life. Positive words have the power to change your life," she told xoNecole.
When it comes to manifesting your destiny, J. Ivory proclaims that you should think of affirmations as the pathway in which you want your actions to go. “You manifest affirmations best by doing the work and some of it is really hard work. I often tell my clients, 'If you see it, you can have it.' Visualize and write out how you see your highest/best self and start showing up as that person every day. Get to know the person you want to become. Be specific. What do they eat? How do they dress?” she asked. J. Ivory went on to say, “What books are they reading? If the person you want to become is financially free and wealthy, and that’s what you are affirming, then you need to ask yourself, 'How does my current spending habits and mindset align with the wealthy and financially-free person I want to become? What are some changes I can make today that I can be consistent at that will get me closer to my desired outcome?'"
Above all, she wanted to make sure folks realize that affirming the life you deserve calls for you to be unafraid of the specifics. “Sometimes, I find that people think that affirmations are some type of magic trick.” One thing to take away from J. Ivory's knowledge about affirmations is the importance of your actions aligning with your words.
In 2023, we want to be intentional about how we speak in every way. Since being about the action is a part of the beauty of manifesting affirmations, we rounded up 23 women to share the biggest affirmation they are speaking over themselves this year. Here’s what they had to say.
Tasha McCaskiel, Social Media Strategist and Creator of Black Girls in Media
@tashjmackk
Courtesy of Tasha McCaskiel
"I affirm a new and long-lasting love because 2022 was such a self-love year for me, and it was great. I also thrived professionally. [This] year I affirm room for a lifelong romantic partner! God has plans to prosper me, not to harm."
Terrica M. Wright, Founder and Co-Owner of The High Esteem Society
@terricatalks
Courtesy of Terrica M. Wright
"I give myself permission to be all that God has called me to be. An affirmation that got me through 2022 was 'Know who you are and whose you are.'"
Kimberlee Ward, CEO and Founder of Eternal Balance Candles
@theekward
Courtesy of Kimberlee Ward
"I am enough and worthy of the life I desire. I am speaking this affirmation over 2023 because this is the year to not only sit in a place of healing but recognize I deserve to enjoy and revel in what is on the other side of that healing. I want my awareness of what I know to be possible to expand toward the life I desire. I do not intend to act small or be small in my wants.
"As a 31-year-old Black woman, I deserve to have the luxuries of life and for my business, Eternal Balance Candles to become a six-figure business. I am speaking this affirmation over my life in 2023 to let myself know that I am enough and I can be in a place where I am thriving and not just surviving. I want myself to know that the survival mode I have been in served a purpose, to thank my physical body and mind for the changes it made through the hardships, and for me to know now is the time to shine being authentically me."
Mercedes Matthews, Meditation Instructor
@mercedesm7
Courtesy of Mercedes Matthews
“'It’s not what it cost, it’s what it’s worth.' This is my affirmation for 2023 because it reminds me to get comfortable making investments in my life that bring ease. The affirmation that got me through 2022 is 'Here I am, so here I’ll be.' A gentle reminder to be completely present in every moment possible."
Rechelle Dennis, ESSENCE Girls United Lead
@YungChelly
Courtesy of Rechelle Dennis
"'Take more fucking risks and love being uncomfortable!' It is important not to fear the power that resides within you. Find allies and people who can help you harvest your talents. How can you grow to the best that you can be without optimistically facing the unknown? 'Believe in yourself' is the corniest phrase known to mankind but it really got me through 2022. If you don’t believe in yourself and who you are, you can’t expect anyone else to. Everything starts within."
Kimberly Ndubizu, Founder and Host, Rich Little Brokegirls
@sliimkim
Courtesy of Kimberly Ndubizu
"'There are no limits to what women can achieve because there are no bounds to what women can dream.' For years women have slept the wildest dreams— today we are rested, determined, and will stop at nothing to see them true. Never doubt your intuition, it knows exactly where you are meant to be."
Rocquelle Porch, Podcaster of Black Style Anecdotes and Content Creator
@considermelovely
Courtesy of Rocquelle Porch
"'I can do hard things!' There are some things I want to accomplish in 2023, financially, professionally, and creatively. Doing so won’t be easy…requiring some sacrifice and grit, so I will be reminding myself of this daily, as I strive to reach my goals. The grass is green wherever I am."
Chasity Hart, Theater Teacher, Singer and Actress
@Iamchasityhart
Courtesy of Chasity Hart
"'Weight doesn’t determine my worth. Even if I’m afraid, I will do it. If I can dream it, I can have it. No one is me, and that is my power. I will thrive outside of my comfort zone. I will face resistance with action and faith. I am not what I’ve been through. I am who God made me.'"
Rasheda Crockett, Actress
@RashedaCrockett
Courtesy of Rasheda Crockett
"'God loves me and in love there’s no fear.' 'All things are possible' was the affirmation that got me through 2022."
Cashmiyr, Mompreneur
@cashthecre8tve
Courtesy of Cashmiyr
"'My intuition is clear and powerful.' 2022 was an extremely transformative year for me. Through the difficulties I’ve faced I came to realize that when I challenged or ignored my inner voice, I struggled the most. Fortunately, with the help of these lessons, I’ve arrived at a place where I don’t dare question the power of my intuition or the validity of my experiences. I know and feel that implementing this affirmation into my life will be incredibly beneficial, and I’m looking forward to meeting the woman I’ll be this time next year because of it. I believe in my strength and in life’s generosity."
Roberta Tabb, Digital Designer and Author
@therobertashow
Courtesy of Roberta Tabb
"I am only getting better. If I want it, I will get it. Last year’s mantra was, 'I am wealthy, emotionally, mentally and financially.'”
Kenniqua Howell, Content Creator, Storyteller and Social Strategist
@kenniquamona
Courtesy of Kenniqua Howell
"'I am worthy of all the good life has to offer, and I will continue to climb higher because there are no limits to what I can achieve.' Why? I’m so quick to question why I receive good things and in 2023, I am stepping into my full potential. I am no longer allowing people, things, jobs, etc. decide what I am capable of. In 2023, I am ready to wow myself and show myself that I am my wildest dreams and can achieve so much more than I think. I am no longer doubting myself, getting everything I deserve, and accepting every single thing… because I am worthy of it all."
Jennifer Francis-Smikle, Digital Media Strategist and Video Production
@MySpicedLife
Courtesy of Jennifer Francis-Smikle
"'I choose joy.' I want to do things that make me happy, make me smart and also serve ME. Oftentimes, I noticed that we are doing things to make others happy or doing things that will cause the least amount of turmoil with others. I am on the path to changing that for 2023. I celebrate all wins, big and small."
Daphine Bush, Influencer
@Simplydaph
Courtesy of Daphine Bush
"'I have the nature of love. All that I encounter will flourish in love.' This is my mantra this upcoming year because [the] God I love can and will empower us to lead our lives with love. We can spread love, walk in love, and abide in love despite what we experience and this new year, I’m always determined to love others and myself with the love of God. Last year's affirmation was, 'Be intentional.' I was determined to be intentional in all things. I was focused on my family, on my health, and on my relationship with God."
Shanika Graham-White, Content Creator and Cookbook Author
@orchidsnsweettea_
Courtesy of Shanika Graham-White
"'My year of restoration is unfolding. Every seed that was planted shall harvest in every form of my life.' This is what I'll be speaking over 2023 because it reminds me that my sowing in faith, perseverance, and patience will all reap something plentiful beyond what I could ask or think. 2022’s mantra was, 'Just keep going. Persevere, be consistent, and remain focused.'"
Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe, Content Creator
@twentysomethingplus
Courtesy of Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe
"I am worthy of all that comes my way. I don’t want to doubt any of my blessings. What I’ve hoped and prayed for is rightfully mine. Show me how good it can get."
Abigail Ogun, Digital Marketer and Travel Creator
@ladiestakenotes
Courtesy of Abigail Ogun
"2023 is a year of intentional growth and execution. I say this because I've spent a lot of time learning more about the content creator industry and how to turn it into a profitable business, as well as testing different methods to see what works for me and my audience. In 2023, I'm excited to jump into the deep end, implement everything I've learned and grow into my goals. I will take life as it comes and see the lessons in everything."
Marie Zoumanigui, Actress and Content Creator
@PetiteMarieNyc
Courtesy of Marie Zoumanigui
"'My thoughts become my reality.' I did a lot of trusting my abilities in 2022, it’s time for me to believe those abilities will get me to where I want to be as long as I keep working on them and putting the work in. 'I trust in my abilities' helped me get through 2022."
Tanisha Cherry, Influencer and Content Creator
@tanisha.cherry
Courtesy of Tanisha Cherry
"'My ambition and drive for success are balanced, healthy and in alignment with my highest good.' I'm dedicating 2023 to being locked into accomplishing the goals that will get me to that next level professionally. But at the same time, I am going to do it by remaining true to who I am and trusting my intuition along the way. Around the middle of 2022, I found myself being sad about not showing up for myself the way I need to and not having a support system to lean into. During these times, I had to remind myself that although I am feeling this, I am going to be okay."
Devana Turner, Technical Recruiter and Content Creator
@devanaturner
Courtesy of Devana Turner
"Nothing is more important than my mental and physical health. I will say no and say no often. No matter what your intentions are, take accountability for the impact."
Anita Aloys, Digital Content Creator
@auneetuh
Courtesy of Anita Aloys
"'I can accomplish everything I set out to achieve because fear is not a trait of a bad bitch.' This affirmation is so important to me because my goals for 2023 are huge and a little scary but I am determined to face them fearlessly as I'd love 2023 to be my best year yet! In 2022, I affirmed, 'I am receiving everything I deserve and the universe is aligning for my good!'"
Melissa Chanel Carnegie, Entrepreneur and Content Creator
@melissachanel
Courtesy of Melissa Chanel
"'I’m only going to get better!' I saved an Issa Rae TikTok this summer and it has stuck with me! [This] a reminder of where I’ve been and if I continue being my best self, I’m only going to get better! 2022 taught me that asking for help is a sign of self-respect and self-awareness. Asking for help has always been hard for me! This year I was able to practice and understand that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. This affirmation helped me with that!"
Klarke Foreman, Model, Graphic Designer and Business Owner
@kweenklarke
Courtesy of Klarke Foreman
"'I can do hard things.' Adulting, pursuing a dream, nurturing relationships, and establishing healthier habits internally and externally are all challenging (and that's just to name a few). But what's even harder is staying the same. I am choosing my hard, especially if it's for the betterment of myself. The affirmation that got me through 2022 was 'I am conquering my fears and becoming stronger each day.'"
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Featured image courtesy of Marie Zoumanigui
- Returning Home: Why ‘Black Is King’ Was An Affirmation Of My Search For Identity ›
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So, we handpicked one hundred It Girls who embody that palpable It Factor moving through us as young Black women, the kind of motion lighting up the world both IRL and across the internet.
It Girl 100 became xoNecole’s most successful program, with the hashtag organically reaching more than forty million impressions on Instagram in just twenty-four hours. Yes, it caught on like wildfire because we celebrated some of the most brilliant and influential GenZennial women of color setting trends and shaping culture. But more than that, it resonated because the women we celebrated felt seen.
Many were already known in their industries for keeping this generation fly and lit, but rarely received recognition or flowers. It Girl 100 became a safe space to be uplifted, and for us as Black women to bask in what felt like an era of our brilliance, beauty, and boundless influence on full display.
And then, almost overnight, it was as if the rug was pulled from under us as Black women, as the It Girls of the world.
Our much-needed, much-deserved season of ease and soft living quickly metamorphosed into a time of self-preservation and survival. Our motion and economic progression seemed strategically slowed, our light under siege.
The air feels heavier now. The headlines colder. Our Black girl magic is being picked apart and politicized for simply existing.
With that climate shift, as we prepare to launch our second annual It Girl 100 honoree list, our team has had to dig deep on the purpose and intention behind this year’s list. Knowing the spirit of It Girl 100 is about motion, sauce, strides, and progression, how do we celebrate amid uncertainty and collective grief when the juice feels like it is being squeezed out of us?
As we wrestled with that question, we were reminded that this tension isn’t new. Black women have always had to find joy in the midst of struggle, to create light even in the darkest corners. We have carried the weight of scrutiny for generations, expected to be strong, to serve, to smile through the sting. But this moment feels different. It feels deeply personal.
We are living at the intersection of liberation and backlash. We are learning to take off our capes, to say no when we are tired, to embrace softness without apology.
And somehow, the world has found new ways to punish us for it.
In lifestyle, women like Kayla Nicole and Ayesha Curry have been ridiculed for daring to choose themselves. Tracee Ellis Ross was labeled bitter for speaking her truth about love. Meghan Markle, still, cannot breathe without critique.
In politics, Kamala Harris, Letitia James, and Jasmine Crockett are dragged through the mud for standing tall in rooms not built for them.
In sports, Angel Reese, Coco Gauff, and Taylor Townsend have been reminded that even excellence will not shield you from racism or judgment.
In business, visionaries like Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye and Melissa Butler are fighting to keep their dreams alive in an economy that too often forgets us first.
Even our icons, Beyoncé, Serena, and SZA, have faced criticism simply for evolving beyond the boxes society tried to keep them in.
From everyday women to cultural phenoms, the pattern is the same. Our light is being tested.
And yet, somehow, through it all, we are still showing up as that girl, and that deserves to be celebrated.
Because while the world debates our worth, we keep raising our value. And that proof is all around us.
This year alone, Naomi Osaka returned from motherhood and mental health challenges to reach the semifinals of the US Open. A’ja Wilson claimed another MVP, reminding us that beauty and dominance can coexist. Brandy and Monica are snatching our edges on tour. Kahlana Barfield Brown sold out her new line in the face of a retailer that had been canceled. And Melissa Butler’s company, The Lip Bar, is projecting a forty percent surge in sales.
We are no longer defining strength by how much pain we can endure. We are defining it by the unbreakable light we continue to radiate.
We are the women walking our daily steps and also continuing to run solid businesses. We are growing in love, taking solo trips, laughing until it hurts, raising babies and ideas, drinking our green juice, and praying our peace back into existence.
We are rediscovering the joy of rest and realizing that softness is not weakness, it is strategy.
And through it all, we continue to lift one another. Emma Grede is creating seats at the table. Valeisha Butterfield has started a fund for jobless Black women. Arian Simone is leading in media with fearless conviction. We are pouring into each other in ways the world rarely sees but always feels.
So yes, we are in the midst of societal warfare. Yes, we are being tested. Yes, we are facing economic strain, political targeting, and public scrutiny. But even war cannot dim a light that is divinely ours.
And we are still shining.
And we are still softening.
And we are still creating.
And we are still It.
That is the quiet magic of Black womanhood, our ability to hold both truth and triumph in the same breath, to say yes, and to life’s contradictions.
It is no coincidence that this year, as SheaMoisture embraces the message “Yes, And,” they stand beside us as partners in celebrating this class of It Girls. Because that phrase, those two simple words, capture the very essence of this moment.
Yes, we are tired. And we are still rising.
Yes, we are questioned. And we are the answer.
Yes, we are bruised. And we are still beautiful.
This year’s It Girl 100 is more than a list. It is a love letter to every Black woman who dares to live out loud in a world that would rather she whisper. This year’s class is living proof of “Yes, And,” women who are finding ways to thrive and to heal, to build and to rest, to lead and to love, all at once.
It is proof that our joy is not naive, our success not accidental. It is the reminder that our light has never needed permission.
So without further ado, we celebrate the It Girl 100 Class of 2025–2026.
We celebrate the millions of us who keep doing it with grace, grit, and glory.
Because despite it all, we still shine.
Because we are still her.
Because we are still IT, girl.
Meet all 100 women shaping culture in the It Girl 100 Class of 2025. View the complete list of honorees here.
Featured image by xoStaff
This year's It Girl 100 is a mosaic of brilliance, spotlighting media personalities, cultural disruptors, beauty visionaries, and boundary-pushing prodigies who embody the spirit of "Yes, And." This digital celebration honors the women who embrace every facet of themselves, proving you can be a light and still honor your desire to glow at your own pace.
The women repping for the Culture & Entertainment category prove relevance is crafted, not accidental. It's the alchemy of talent, intention, and magnetism that becomes the spark.
Here's the roll call for xoNecole's It Girl 100 Class of 2025: Culture & Entertainment.
Model and Media Personality Olandria Carthen
Shutterstock
Olandria Carthen
Her Handle: @x_olandria
Her Title: Model and Media Personality
Who's That It Girl: Olandria Carthen is lighting up the entertainment space with creativity and confidence. We love her for carving out a name rooted in self-belief and for using her artistry to uplift and inspire.
Actress Akira Akbar
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Akira Akbar
Her Handle: @akira_akbar
Her Title: Actress
Who's That It Girl: Bright, fearless, and full of heart, Akira Akbar is redefining what young Hollywood looks like. We honor her for bringing depth and authenticity to every role and for reminding the world that talent has no age limit.
Singer, Songwriter and Actress Halle Bailey
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Halle Bailey
Her Handle: @hallebailey
Her Title: Singer, Songwriter and Actress
Who's That It Girl: Halle Bailey is ethereal strength in motion. We love her for redefining princesshood, representation, and the power of visibility, inspiring young dreamers to believe their voices belong on every stage.
Entrepreneur, Model, Actress, and Cultural Voice Chelley Bissanthe
Courtesy
Chelley Bissanthe
Her Handle: @_slimthin
Her Title: Entrepreneur, Model, Actress, and Cultural Voice
Who's That It Girl: Chelley Bissainthe is a Haitian-American model, entrepreneur, and advocate. She uses her platform to uplift communities, honor her Caribbean heritage, and build pathways to ownership and legacy.
Actress and Singer Ryan Destiny
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Ryan Destiny
Her Handle: @ryandestiny
Her Title: Actress and Singer
Who's That It Girl: Ryan Destiny embodies star power and stillness in one. We celebrate her for her poise, range, and unshakable confidence, proof that quiet strength can shine just as bright as any spotlight.
Reality TV Personality and Influencer Amber Desiree (AD)
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Amber Desiree (AD)
Her Handle: @amberdesiree
Her Title: Reality TV Personality and Influencer
Who's That It Girl: Charismatic and bold, Amber Desiree brings emotional depth and vibrant storytelling to every project she touches. We love her for representing multifaceted womanhood on screen and off, inspiring a generation of creatives to lead with authenticity.
Top Creator, Model, Media Personality and Cultural Tastemaker Serena Page
Credit: Jacob Webster
Serena Page
Her Handle: @serenaapagee
Her Title: Top Creator, Model, Media Personality and Cultural Tastemaker
Who's That It Girl: Serena Page first captured hearts on Love Island USA Season 6 and has since become one of pop culture’s favorite “it girls.” Her confidence and authenticity have made her a go-to face for brands like SheaMoisture, Pepsi, and CeraVe.
Director and Executive Producer Courtney Whitaker
Courtesy
Courtney Whitaker
Her Handle: @courtneyewhitaker
Her Title: Director and Executive Producer
Who's That It Girl: Courtney Whitaker is a two-time Emmy-winning producer and director specializing in TV, documentaries, and branded content. With over 20 projects completed, she's dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices through impactful storytelling.
DJ Uncle Waffles
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Uncle Waffles
Her Handle: @unclewaffles_
Her Who's That It Girl: The DJ queen of the global stage, Uncle Waffles turns sound into celebration. We love her for electrifying dance floors and championing African creativity with confidence, rhythm, and undeniable joy.
Entrepreneur and Television Personality JaNa Craig
Credit: Susan Madore
JaNa Craig
Her Handle: @janacraig_
Her Title: Creator, Entrepreneur and Television Personality
Who's That It Girl: With creativity that defies convention, JaNa Craig is building a lane all her own in music and production. We celebrate her for reminding women that reinvention is power and authenticity is art.
Award-Winning Journalist, Host and Creator Gia Peppers
Credit: Jonavennci Divad - Ravenn Burs
Gia Peppers
Her Handle: @giapeppers
Her Title: Award-Winning Journalist, Host and Creator of Healed Girl Era Podcast
Who's That It Girl: Gia Peppers is an award-winning journalist, host, and podcaster who uses her platforms to tell powerful stories. Through More Than That and Healed Girl Era, she reminds audiences to embrace their voice and value.
Actress, Executive Producer, and Founder Marsai Martin
Credit: Maya McHenry
Marsai Martin
Her Handle: @marsaimartin
Her Title: Actress, Executive Producer, and Founder of Genius Entertainment and Sai Summer Cookout
Who's That It Girl: Marsai Martin is a creative prodigy with executive energy. We’re inspired by her for producing, directing, and acting with intention, showing young Black girls that leadership starts wherever you decide it does.
Rapper and Singer Doechii
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Doechii
Her Handle: @doechii
Her Title: Rapper and Singer
Who's That It Girl: A lyrical firestorm and unapologetic visionary, Doechii is shaping the sound of this generation. We honor her for pushing the boundaries of genre, performance, and self-expression with fearless creativity.
Actress, Singer, Producer and TV Host Keke Palmer
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Keke Palmer
Her Handle: @keke
Her Title: Actress, Singer, Producer and TV Host
Who's That It Girl: An icon of charisma and confidence, Keke Palmer is entertainment royalty. We celebrate her for leading with humor, honesty, and hustle, showing that versatility is her superpower and evolution her legacy.
Actress, Model, Singer, Designer, Content Creator and Entrepreneur Nzinga Imani
Credit: Shae DeWaal
Nzinga Imani
Her Handle: @nzingaimani
Her Title: Actress, Model, Singer, Designer, Content Creator and Entrepreneur
Who's That It Girl: We love Nzinga Imani for her bold authenticity and on-screen presence. As an actress, model, and entrepreneur, she’s redefining beauty and representation in entertainment.
Rapper and Singer Monaleo
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Monaleo
Her Handle: @themonaleo
Her Title: Rapper and Singer
Who's That It Girl: Monaleo’s voice hits with power and purpose. We honor her for pairing confidence with vulnerability, turning her truth into anthems that inspire women to heal loudly and live boldly.
Singer and Songwriter Amaarae
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Amaarae
Her Handle: @amaarae
Her Title: Singer and Songwriter
Who's That It Girl: With a sound that bends genres and a style that breaks rules, Amaarae is one of music’s most daring voices. We celebrate her for pushing boundaries, owning her individuality, and amplifying the power of Afro-fusion on a global stage.
Singer, KATSEYE Monan Bannerman
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Monan Bannerman
Her Handle: @meretmanon
Her Title: Singer, KATSEYE
Who's That It Girl: As a member of KATSEYE, Monan merges style, grace, and global influence. We celebrate her for bringing cultural depth and individuality to the next generation of pop icons.
Singer, Actress, Creative Director, and Choreographer Teyana Taylor
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Teyana Taylor
Her Handle: @teyanataylor
Her Title: Singer, Actress, Creative Director, and Choreographer
Who's That It Girl: Teyana Taylor is the embodiment of artistry, singer, choreographer, director, designer. We honor her for transforming every creative avenue she touches into a masterpiece of movement, emotion, and empowerment.
Singer, Songwriter and Producer Laila!
Courtesy
Laila!
Her Handle: @prodlaila
Her Title: Singer, Songwriter, and Producer
Who's That It Girl: Laila is the creative force whose sound pulses with honesty and energy. We honor her for capturing emotion through production and storytelling, inspiring a new era of music that feels intimate yet universal.
Actress Antonia Gentry
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Antonia Gentry
Her Handle: @_antoniagentry_
Her Title: Actress
Who's That It Girl: With talent that transcends screens, Antonia Gentry brings raw emotion and grace to every performance. We honor her for reminding us that vulnerability is strength and that storytelling can be both healing and revolutionary.
Actress and Model Laura Harrier
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Laura Harrier
Her Handle: @lauraharrier
Her Title: Actress and Model
Who's That It Girl: Effortlessly chic and profoundly grounded, Laura Harrier is redefining Hollywood grace. We celebrate her for using her platform to champion representation and for proving that elegance and activism can coexist beautifully.
R&B Singer/Songwriter, Actress Coco Jones
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Coco Jones
Her Handle: @cocojones
Her Title: R&B Singer/Songwriter, Actress
Who's That It Girl: Coco Jones is a Grammy-winning R&B breakout who captivates with her timeless artistry and soulful voice. She also stars as Hilary Banks in the Bel-Air reboot and recently wrapped an upcoming romantic comedy That’s Her.
Entrepreneur, Media Personality and Philanthropist Lauren Speed-Hamilton
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Lauren Speed-Hamilton
Her Handle: @need4lspeed
Her Title: Entrepreneur, Media Personality and Philanthropist
Who's That It Girl: Lauren Speed-Hamilton turned her Love Is Blind journey into a masterclass in purpose-driven storytelling. We love her for inspiring authenticity in love, media, and entrepreneurship, building connection where vulnerability meets vision.
Actress and Singer Amber Riley
Credit: xoNecole
Amber Riley
Her Handle: @msamberpriley
Her Title: Actress and Singer
Who's That It Girl: Amber Riley’s voice is pure power, soulful, spiritual, and unforgettable. We celebrate her for using her artistry to uplift others, redefining what resilience and radiance look like in entertainment.
Joy Woods
Her Handle: @joynwoods
Her Title: Actress
Who's That It Girl: Joy Woods’ name says it all, joy radiates through every note she sings. We’re inspired by her Broadway brilliance and her commitment to showing that Black women’s voices are boundless and breathtaking.
Country Singer, Songwriter Tanner Adell
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Tanner Adell
Her Handle: @tanneradell
Her Title: Country Singer, Songwriter
Who's That It Girl: With a voice as bold as her vision, Tanner Adell is redefining country music with style and soul. We celebrate her for breaking barriers, blending cultures, and creating a sound that’s unapologetically her own.
Producer, Host and Media Maven Kéla Walker
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Kéla Walker
Her Handle: @KelaWalker
Her Title: Producer, Host and Media Maven
Who's That It Girl: Kéla Walker is a 7x Emmy-nominated producer, host, and digital tastemaker, a modern-day media maven merging television storytelling with contemporary influence. As the founder of Walker Media Group, she curates aspirational lifestyle content anchored in style, culture, and substance. From red carpets to real life, Kéla brings a distinct point of view that bridges legacy media and the digital landscape.
TV Personality Riley Burruss
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Riley Burruss
Her Handle: @rileyburruss
Her Title: TV Personality
Who's That It Girl: We celebrate Riley Burruss as a rising creative and storyteller forging her own space in entertainment. Fresh out of NYU with a degree in music business, she’s building momentum through Next Gen NYC and her podcast The Burruss Banter, all while exploring a future in entertainment law.
Entrepreneur, Actor, Model, Style Icon and Entrepreneur Lori Harvey
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Lori Harvey
Her Handle: @loriharvey
Her Title: Beauty Entrepreneur, Actor, Model, Style Icon and Entrepreneur
Who's That It Girl: Lori Harvey embodies modern femininity and independence. We celebrate her for turning self-love into legacy and for inspiring women to walk confidently in their own power.
Actress Storm Reid
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Storm Reid
Her Handle: @stormreid
Her Title: Actress
Who's That It Girl: Storm Reid radiates brilliance far beyond her years. We love her for bringing compassion, creativity, and courage to every role, a true beacon for young women dreaming of changing the world through art.
Actress Whitney Peak
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Whitney Peak
Her Handle: @whitneypeak
Her Title: Actress
Who's That It Girl: Whitney Peak exudes quiet confidence and magnetic charm. We celebrate her for redefining modern cool and for reminding young women that authenticity is the most timeless form of beauty.
Tap into the full It Girl 100 Class of 2025 and meet all the women shaping the culture this year and beyond. See the full list here.
Featured image by xoStaff