ESSENCE 55: Black Women Unite in Paris

Imagine a gathering of powerful Black women, united by heritage, sisterhood, and a shared vision, all convened at the legendary Ritz Paris. This wasn’t just a dinner; it was ESSENCE 55, a celebration marking 55 years of ESSENCE magazine and embodying its global Community Compass initiative. As a participant, I experienced firsthand how this event brought together women from across continents to honor Black womanhood in all its brilliance.

A Seat at the Table: Elegance and Connection

The setting itself, the iconic Ritz Paris, exuded an elegance befitting the occasion. Greeted warmly and guided through a sunlit courtyard, the atmosphere was refined and expectant. Fifteen remarkable women, including entrepreneurs, executives, a neuropsychologist, and an international supermodel, represented a global sisterhood. We were a radiant tableau of Black beauty and brilliance, from bespoke African gowns and bold prints to classic sophistication, all set against the backdrop of ornate 18th-century architecture.

Before dinner, the air buzzed with laughter and connection as we sipped champagne, sampled canapés, and admired thoughtful gift bags featuring products from fellow entrepreneurs. It was a vibrant display of Black excellence redefining tradition, a prelude to the meaningful conversations that would follow.

A Conversation Rooted in Purpose and Heritage

Our gracious host, Laura Brown, shared the inspiring vision behind ESSENCE 55. Born from a pandemic-induced yearning to reconnect with her Liberian roots, the event was a testament to creating spaces for Black women across continents to unite in healing and solidarity. Her words resonated deeply, echoing the pride many of us felt in our diverse heritages – British-Nigerian, Guyanese, French-Ivorian, and more.

Many women, particularly those from Francophone African backgrounds, expressed a shared desire for greater community, connection, and visibility. “ESSENCE has always made us feel wanted, included, and appreciated,” Laura stated, highlighting the crucial need for ESSENCE to expand its presence beyond the U.S. and engage with women in France and the wider diaspora.

The ESSENCE Community Compass: Amplifying Voices Globally

Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, ESSENCE’s Chief Community Global Officer, passionately outlined the Community Compass, a vision placing Black women at the core of every decision. “ESSENCE lives for Black women,” she affirmed. “We’re here to listen, learn, and connect with you — wherever you are in the world.”

Around the table, stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and identity were shared, many reflecting on how ESSENCE Magazine shaped their sense of self. Entrepreneurs like Sophy Aiida and Celi Marie Touré voiced a collective sentiment: the need for ESSENCE to have a stronger presence in France to amplify the voices and showcase the work of Black and Brown women there. “We need ESSENCE here… This is necessary. This is the first, and it shouldn’t be the last.”

A Movement in Miniature: Sisterhood and Future

What unfolded that evening was more than just a dinner; it was a movement. Connections were forged, ideas exchanged, and hearts opened. Laughter, dancing, and even tears marked the night, transforming networking into a profound reaffirmation of sisterhood, purpose, and power. As one of the few U.K. representatives, I felt deeply honored to witness this historic moment.

ESSENCE 55 wasn’t just an anniversary; it signaled a shift. For the first time, ESSENCE created a dedicated space in Paris for women from across the diaspora to share their truths and shape the brand’s global future. Through the Community Compass, ESSENCE continues its commitment to listening, ensuring Black women are seen, valued, and connected worldwide. This celebration was history in motion, and it’s clear the future of ESSENCE is global.