Vanessa Mbonu

VP, Marketing
NAACP

Vanessa Mbonu (she/her) is a dynamic marketing and communications leader with a proven track record of driving impact across industries. Currently serving as Vice President of Marketing at the NAACP, Vanessa leads transformative campaigns that empower marginalized communities and amplify critical social justice initiatives. With expertise honed at organizations like AARP, Voice of America, and the NAACP, Vanessa combines innovative storytelling with strategic vision to mobilize audiences and inspire change on a global scale.A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Vanessa has also been recognized by the United Nations as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent and honored by PR Daily as a Marketer to Watch. An accomplished public speaker, she has shared insights at prestigious forums, including the NAACP National Convention and the One Young World Summit, where she accepted the Campaigner of the Year Award for groundbreaking advocacy.Known for her ability to engage diverse audiences with thought-provoking analysis and actionable strategies, Vanessa is sought after for her expertise in leveraging digital platforms, galvanizing movements, and addressing the most pressing challenges of our time.

Community Track

Rewriting the Narrative: Black Excellence in Digital Spaces

Duration: 45 minutes

Location: Room 213ABC (Impact Stage)

Thursday, June 19

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

Categories: DE&I, ASL Interpreters Present

Featuring: B Mo the Prince, Ericka Bozeman, Kevin Langue and more

Black creators are redefining storytelling, shaping culture, and building thriving digital communities. Hear from trailblazers who are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for the next generation. Join us for an inspiring discussion on creativity, resilience, and the undeniable impact of Black excellence in digital spaces.

Participants


Industry Track

Black & Viral: The Business of Influence (presented by NAACP and The Webby Awards)

Duration: 30 minutes

Location: 303 AB

Thursday, June 19

12:45 pm - 1:15 pm

Featuring: Brooke Berry (Head of Creator Development at Snapchat), Chantal Rochelle (Director, Influencer Marketing at Warner Bros. Pictures), Jordana Jarrett (Head of Content at The Webby Awards) and more

From brand deals to algorithm battles, Black creators are shaping culture while navigating a digital landscape that doesn’t always reciprocate. Join moderator Vanessa Mbonu (NAACP) in conversation with industry leaders Chantal Rochelle (Warner Bros. Discovery), Jordana Jarret (The Webby Awards) and Brooke Berry (Snap Inc.) as they unpack the current state of the creator economy, the unique challenges Black influencers face, and the powerful opportunities on the horizon. This candid panel will explore how platforms, brands, and creatives can work together to build an ecosystem where Black voices are not just included, but amplified, protected, and paid.

Participants


Creator Track

Black & Viral presented by the NAACP & The Webby Awards

Duration: 45 minutes

Location: Room 207AB

Thursday, June 19

4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Categories: DE&I

Featuring: Blair Imani, Derrick Downey Jr., Jordana Jarrett and more

Black creators don’t just go viral, they set the tone for the internet. From defining culture to driving conversations, building businesses, and uplifting communities, their impact is both undeniable and essential. Black & Viral is a thought leadership series presented by the NAACP and The Webby Awards that proudly celebrates Black digital excellence, spotlighting the creators, influencers, advocates, and storytellers who are shaping what we see, how we connect, and what the internet can become. This conversation explores how Black creators are using their platforms not only to entertain, but to empower, advocate, and reimagine the future of online influence.

Participants