Caroline Wanga

Community Council Member, United States

Professional Overview

Caroline Wanga is a respected leader with extensive experience in the media, marketing, and community advocacy sectors. She currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Essence Ventures, overseeing the operations of Essence Communications Inc. and Afropunk. Wanga is also an active member of the Diversity Marketing Advisory Council at McDonald's and the Community Council at American Airlines, leveraging her expertise to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Essence Ventures (Essence Communications Inc. and Afropunk)
2022-10-01 to Present

• Responsible for the overall strategic direction and operations of Essence Ventures, encompassing Essence Communications Inc. and Afropunk

• Driving the company's mission to celebrate, empower, and elevate Black culture and communities

• Leveraging her extensive industry experience to foster partnerships, expand the company's reach, and enhance its impact

Diversity Marketing Advisory Council Member, McDonald's
2021-08-01 to Present

• Provides strategic guidance and insights to McDonald's on diversity-focused marketing initiatives and campaigns

• Collaborates with the team to identify opportunities for increased representation and inclusive messaging

• Contributes to the development of effective strategies to engage diverse consumer segments

Community Council Member, American Airlines
2020-11-01 to Present

• Serves as a liaison between American Airlines and the local community, advocating for the needs and concerns of diverse stakeholders

• Collaborates with the airline's leadership to develop and implement impactful community engagement programs

• Ensures the company's initiatives align with the evolving needs and priorities of the communities it serves

Past Roles

Chief Executive Officer, Essence Communications Inc.
2021-02-01 to Present

• Assumed the CEO role after serving as the Interim CEO, providing stable leadership and driving the company's growth

• Spearheaded the development and execution of strategic initiatives to strengthen Essence's brand, content, and digital presence

• Fostered partnerships and collaborations to expand the company's reach and impact within the Black community

Co-Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, WangaWoman LLC
2020-10-01 to Present

• Co-founded WangaWoman, a purpose-driven platform that empowers and celebrates women, especially those of color

• Responsible for the overall vision, strategy, and execution of the company's initiatives and programs

• Leverages her expertise to cultivate a vibrant community and drive meaningful change for women

Academic Background

Caroline Wanga holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of North Texas. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for her career in the media, marketing, and community advocacy sectors.

Areas of Expertise

• Media and entertainment industry

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy

• Community engagement and advocacy

• Brand development and marketing

• Organizational leadership and management

Professional Impact

• Recognized as a leading voice in the media and marketing industries, championing diversity and inclusion initiatives

• Instrumental in driving the growth and transformation of Essence Communications Inc. as both the Interim and permanent CEO

• Leverages her expertise to provide strategic guidance to prominent brands like McDonald's and American Airlines, shaping their diversity and community engagement efforts

• Co-founded WangaWoman, a successful platform that empowers and celebrates women, particularly women of color

Conclusion

Caroline Wanga is a highly accomplished and influential leader in the media, marketing, and community advocacy sectors. With her extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, she continues to make a significant impact on the industries and communities she serves. Wanga's multifaceted expertise and proven track record of success position her as a valuable asset in driving positive change and empowering diverse stakeholders.