One word: OPRAH! #ESSENCE Disclaimer: We recognize Black creatives are still fighting for their respect and equity; this fight has been displayed through this year’s labor strikes. It is important for us to let our readers know that ESSENCE conducted these interviews and photo shoot for our cover story in May 2023. Credits: Photographer: @mickalenethomas Creative Director/Stylist: @coreytstokes Oprah Stylist: @annabelleharron Oprah Hair: @nicolemangrumhair Oprah Makeup: @derrick4mkup Tailor: @costumer.shirlee Set Design: @winstonstudios Retouching: @studio__rm Special Thanks: @lermitagebh Visual Director: @_mq______ Production: @themorrisongroup