Debra Lee

Lee’s influence can be felt throughout the industry. She will serve as the co-chair for this year’s NAMIC conference. But her hold is not just in the traditional space, with Twitter adding her to its board of directors in May. She’s made sure BET is a leader in the digital space, with the channel launching an OTT subscription service earlier this year in certain international markets. Lee also was instrumental in spearheading the re-branding of Centric as the first network designed for black women. Under her leadership, BET has addressed issues prevalent in the African American community, including voting rights, mothers against urban violence and most recently raising funds for the Flint water crisis. Added bonus… Lee made sure the BET Awards delivered a Prince tribute that honored the Purple One the way royalty should be.