Stephanie Dunivan is not just a leader in media; she is a powerhouse of inspiration, transformation, and cultural impact. As the Vice President of Branded Content and Video at Essence, she has dedicated her career to shaping narratives that celebrate, uplift, and empower the Black community. Her journey from an aspiring music major to an influential media executive is a testament to perseverance, vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
A Pivotal Moment: Discovering Her Passion for Media
In an extraordinary exclusive interview on SOS Radio Live, a sister company of SOS Magazine, we delved into Stephanie’s profound journey. Through candid reflections, she shared not only her triumphs but also the raw, unfiltered struggles that shaped her path.
Dunivan’s foray into the world of television production was serendipitous yet transformative. As a student at Hunter College, The City University of New York, while at a meeting for the Black Student Union at the College, she was invited to be an audience member for a new music variety show, BET’s 106 & Park. That experience was life-changing. “I was immediately enamored with television production,” she recalls. “Seeing so many Black professionals behind and in front of the camera was an epiphany for me.” This pivotal moment sparked a deep passion for television production, leading her to pursue a career in media.
The Relentless Pursuit of Opportunity
Her persistence and determination defined her early years. After completing an internship at Inside Edition, Dunivan had no direct contact to apply to intern at 106 & Park. Instead of accepting defeat, she called a hotline daily for months until she secured the opportunity. Her tenacity paid off, she scored an internship and she soon found herself back at 106 & Park after working at Inside Edition for two years, where she worked for 14 years, witnessing its evolution and cultural significance. “Being a part of that tight-knit family at 106 & Park was a great experience for me,” she shares.
Elevating Media Through Innovation
Dunivan’s journey continued with remarkable milestones. She became a key force behind major live productions, including red carpet shows for the BET and Soul Train Awards. She even produced the first-ever live game show in the BET mobile app, Claim to Fame. But her biggest leap came in 2017 when Essence sought a new supervising producer for the Essence Festival. “I was already in love with Essence as a consumer.” Her passion for storytelling found its perfect home at Essence, where she continues to shape content that amplifies Black voices and experiences.
When Essence Ventures acquired Essence Communications Inc. in 2018, Dunivan found herself at a crossroads. Rather than shrinking in the face of uncertainty, she seized the moment, stepping up as the head of Essence’s video division. Her leadership has been nothing short of revolutionary. She spearheaded the production of the inaugural virtual Essence Festival of Culture in 2020, which amassed an astounding 70 million views of content, with more than 45 million full streams across platforms.
Championing Economic Empowerment
Beyond her executive responsibilities, Dunivan is committed to creating economic opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. As the host of Shop Essence Live in partnership with New Voices Family, a live weekly program, she champions Black-owned businesses, helping them thrive in the e-commerce space. “Our stories, our products, and our businesses deserve visibility and success. I’m proud to be part of a platform that actively contributes to that,” she affirms.
Lessons in Resilience and Self-Worth
Throughout her career, Dunivan has faced challenges, but she has met each one with resilience and purpose. “There will always be obstacles, but you have to decide whether they define you or refine you,” she says. Her advice to aspiring media professionals is clear: “Stay hungry, stay curious, and most importantly, stay true to your purpose. Opportunities don’t always come knocking—you have to be bold enough to chase them.”
One of the most compelling themes of the interview was the importance of self—self-awareness, self-worth, and self-care. Stephanie Dunivan’s story is one of grit, innovation, and empowerment. Her journey is a masterclass in perseverance and purpose, proving that when passion meets opportunity, extraordinary things happen.
Building a Legacy That Transcends Generations
Beyond personal success as a wife and Mother, she spoke passionately about legacy—what it truly means to leave an impact. As she continues to elevate Black voices through her work at Essence, her legacy is already one of profound impact and inspiration. Dunivan’s commitment to storytelling, empowerment, and community-building ensures that her influence will be felt for generations to come.
