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From the South Bronx to the Ivy Leagues to ESSENCE Magazine/Media: Meet Edward Lewis, GlobalMindED Inclusive Leader Award Winner for Media & Arts
Edward Lewis, a name synonymous with vision and cultural impact, co-founded Essence Magazine in 1968 with a modest $13,000 bank loan—far short of the $1.5 million he originally sought. Despite this challenge, the publication grew to become "the preeminent voice for Black women" (The New York Times), boasting a current circulation of 8.5 million readers. Lewis's journey from the South Bronx to leading a global brand is a testament to perseverance, entrepreneurial spirit, and his profound respect for Black women. In 1995, he extended his publishing legacy by co-founding Latina Magazine, a bilingual publication designed to celebrate and empower Hispanic women.
He grew up in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, experiencing firsthand the challenges of urban life. He initially pursued law at Georgetown but ultimately found his calling in the world of publishing. His grandmother, a landowner and matriarch, instilled in him the importance of family and self-reliance. Lewis's early life instilled in him a strong work ethic. From working as a cashier to starring as a fullback in high school and earning a football scholarship to the University of New Mexico (where he was one of only 12 Black students), his experiences shaped his drive and determination. He pursued higher education, earning a B.A. and M.A. in political science and international relations, and later graduating from Harvard's Small Business Management Program.
His career path took him from public service to finance, leading him to First National City Bank in New York City. A pivotal meeting, orchestrated by Russell Goings, the “Godfather of Essence,” sparked the idea for a magazine celebrating Black women. Initially titled Sapphire, the name was changed to Essence after a staff member pointed out the negative connotations associated with the former.
Launched in May 1970, Essence quickly resonated with its target audience. By 1975, it had attracted $3.5 million in advertising, and by January 1977, circulation reached approximately 550,000. Despite internal challenges, Lewis, alongside partner Clarence O. Smith, steered the magazine to unprecedented success. Essence became more than just a publication; it became a cultural touchstone, a platform for Black women's voices, and a catalyst for empowerment. The brand expanded to include The Essence Awards, a television show, the annual Essence Music Festival, and various merchandising ventures.
Lewis emphasized the profound influence of the women in his life: his mother, grandmother, aunt, and cousin. His cousin, Barbara Johns, played a pivotal role in the fight for desegregation, organizing a student protest that contributed to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision. This family history of strength and activism deeply informed Lewis's vision for Essence.
The magazine's inception stemmed from a meeting focused on Black entrepreneurship, where the idea for a publication for Black women emerged. Lewis's decision to launch the Essence Music Festival in 1995 proved to be a stroke of genius, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees annually. In 2005, Lewis orchestrated a partnership with Time Inc., a decision that, while met with some criticism, ultimately benefited many Black women shareholders. In 2017, Essence returned to Black ownership under Richelieu Dennis, ensuring the continuation of Lewis' legacy.
Lewis also shared personal anecdotes, including his love for blues music and his commitment to health and wellness. He expressed his desire to be remembered as a man who "tried to do the right thing" and who made a positive difference in the world.
Ed Lewis's story is one of vision, resilience, and cultural impact. He not only created a magazine; he created a movement, empowering generations of Black women and leaving an indelible mark on American culture. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of representation and the importance of celebrating diverse voices.
Ed Lewis's journey embodies the core principles of GlobalMindED. His commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, particularly Black women, aligns perfectly with GlobalMindED's mission of creating access to education, opportunity, and mobility for all. Essence provided a platform for diverse voices, promoted cultural understanding, and fostered a sense of belonging – values that resonate deeply with GlobalMindED's focus on inclusive leadership and global citizenship. Just as GlobalMindED strives to break down barriers and create pathways to success for individuals from all backgrounds, Ed Lewis dedicated his career to empowering Black women and amplifying their stories on a global stage. His legacy serves as a powerful example of how vision, dedication, and a commitment to inclusivity can create lasting positive change, a message that GlobalMindED champions in its work around the world.
You can meet Edward Lewis and the 14 other Honorees at the Inclusive Leader Awards Dinner on June 16th in Denver. Please read our newsletter each day as we continue to announce the 2025 Inclusive Leader Award Winners through January.
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