Elaine Welteroth has established herself as a dynamic force in the world of media and beyond. From her historic appointment as the youngest Editor-in-Chief at a Condé Nast publication to her recent role as Cultural Ambassador for Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote initiative, Welteroth has consistently pushed boundaries and inspired a new generation of change-makers. Her journey from intern to award-winning journalist and bestselling author is a testament to her relentless drive, vision, and commitment to social impact. Welteroth’s rise to prominence began with her groundbreaking work at Teen Vogue. Appointed Editor-in-Chief in 2017, she was the youngest in Condé Nast’s 107-year history and the second African-American to hold the title.
Under her leadership, Teen Vogue underwent a dramatic transformation, shifting from a traditional fashion and beauty magazine to a platform that championed feminism, culture, and politics. This new direction resonated with readers, resulting in a 535% increase in subscriptions during her tenure. One of Welteroth’s key achievements was expanding Teen Vogue’s coverage to address social justice issues and the political landscape, particularly during the 2016 U.S. election. Her approach created a broader conversation around how young women could be empowered to shape their own narratives. As Welteroth stated in an interview with The Guardian, “I think that stirred up a larger conversation around how we think about young girls.” This shift in focus not only attracted a more engaged audience but also earned her recognition from industry leaders like Anna Wintour, who praised her fearless leadership and ability to connect with readers on a personal level.
Welteroth’s influence extends beyond her editorial work. In 2019, she published her memoir, ‘More Than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are (No Matter What They Say),’ which became an instant New York Times bestseller and received an NAACP Image Award in 2020. The book delves into her journey of self-discovery, offering insights into navigating the complexities of identity, career, and societal expectations. Her career trajectory is marked by notable accomplishments across various platforms. Welteroth has appeared on-camera for a range of media outlets, including ABC News and Netflix, and has written for the hit show Grown-ish. As a judge on the new ‘Project Runway’, she continues to advocate for creativity and innovation in the fashion industry. Additionally, her role as Cultural Ambassador for ‘When We All Vote’ underscores her commitment to promoting civic engagement and encouraging young people to participate in the democratic process.
Welteroth’s journey began with an internship at Ebony magazine, where she rose to the position of beauty editor, and later moved to Glamour before joining Teen Vogue in 2012. Her diverse experiences and ability to adapt to different roles have contributed to her success. In 2016, she was named ’47th’ in The Root’s list of ‘100 influential African-Americans’, a testament to her impact on the broader cultural landscape. Through her work as a journalist, author, and advocate, she continues to inspire others to claim their space and make their voices heard. With her fearless approach to storytelling and commitment to social change, she has established herself as a leading figure in the ongoing transformation of media and culture.
