Publicists are a brand’s best friend. They’re the ones who shape the perception of companies and individuals, and keep the public aware of just how awesome their clients are. Behind every great brand is an even greater publicist, working tirelessly around the clock to ensure the brand is a hot, and respected, topic among media’s top outlets.
Because so much is required of PR pros, it’s always impressive to see all that they accomplish. We were blown away particularly by several who are rising in the profession and putting in overtime to establish themselves as ones to watch. If you’re in need of a dedicated publicist, or an inspiration as you pursue your own career, check out these five black women making moves in PR.
Erica Dias
Erica is a Cali-bred Atlanta-based publicist. She is a co-founder of The B Firm Public Relations Consulting, an agency providing marketing, PR, promotion and brand management to fashion, entertainment and beauty clients. Erica gets the job done, representing clients such as Houston Astros baseball player Telvin Nash, celeb hairstylist Dominique Evans, fashion designer Antonio Brown and Kiwi Vintage Boutique. She also spearheaded her own chic dining and networking experience, Erica’s Table of 20. Guest speakers for the posh and empowering event have included VH1’s Christina Johnson and Front Row designer Shateria Morange.
Keep up with Erica at @Fashion101ED and @TheBFirmPR.
Tikiyah Overstreet
Tikiyah Overstreet has been in PR for over five years, but based on her work ethic and persuasive pitch strategy, you’d think the rising maven had been in the industry for far longer. Tikiyah’s experience spans across food, beverage, beauty and lifestyle brands. She’s a publicist at Relate Public Relations in Los Angeles. Two of her top clients are organic skincare line SMB Essentials and Premier Dead Sea Cosmetics.
Keep up with Tikiyah at @PRGirl911 and @RelatePR.
Melinda Lewis
The biggest component of being a good publicist is knowing how to brand your clients. It’s evident by her presentation of herself that Melinda Lewis is a natural. Melinda is the super stylish founder of Love & PR, a niche PR consulting boutique and an addictive blog that highlights “fashion, design, creative culture, cool stuff, influencers, tastemakers, and people who stand out…”
Keep up with Melinda at @MelindaDaily and @LoveAndPr.
Dreena Whitfield
Whit PR, a boutique strategic communications firm with niche market knowledge, was established by Dreena Whitfield. Dreena works in New Jersey, helping to maximize brand awareness for a variety of clients, like Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche, Pooka Pure and Simple and The NY Chapter of the Recording Academy. She has landed placements in Black Enterprise, Essence and O, The Oprah Magazine, to name a few. In 2013, the PR guru made Ebony’s
top 10 list of Black Women Rising in Politics, as Ms. Whitfield also served as Press Secretary to Mayor of Newark Corey Booker.Keep up with Dreena at @DreenaWhitPR.
Krystle Coleman
Krystle Coleman is the founder and CEO of Midori Star Media Group, a full-service public relations and brand architect agency. Her Miami-based agency provides comprehensive public relations, brand strategy, and marketing to entertainment, athletic, and corporate clientele. The rising PR expert and her boutique have worked with Rick Ross, Jagged Edge, Married to Medicine’s Dr. Jacqueline Walters, NFL star Phillip Buchanon, along with other noted public figures.
Keep up with Krystle at @KrystleColeman and @MidoriStarMedia.