HOUSTON — During Women's History Month, KHOU 11 News is highlighting female entrepreneurs in Texas who are changing the way business is done.
KHOU 11’s Stephanie Whitfield sat down with Nandi Howard, a leader at Essence, to talk about her journey to the top.
At 28 years old, Howard already has a stacked resume. She’s the vice president of content for Essence Ventures and senior content director for Essence Magazine.
“I really feel like I’m still growing into my role. I think Essence is allowing me to do that. They see the potential,” Howard said.
The Elkins High School grad is creative, ambitious, and has always loved fashion. Those skills now allow Howard to curate authentic content for Essence’s print and digital audience nationwide.
“To me, that has been the challenge with being young in such a high position: learning how to be OK with the mess ups and knowing it’s going to be OK, as long as I hold myself accountable and am honest with the staff I’m leading,” she said.
She said being from Houston has shaped her into the woman she is today.
“I was previously editor-in-chief of Houstonia magazine,” Howard said. “That really allowed me to learn about our culture, learn about why Houston is so great. Then be able to take that with me mainstream. I’m able to represent Houston when I’m on the Grammy’s red carpet or at the Oscars. I really feel like I always have a sense of home, because I was able to dive into the community.”
Her experience also inspired her and her friend to launch a new concept called “Portraits," which creates a space for artists to gather, share ideas, and showcase their work. They’ve had two events so far in New York and Los Angeles. She’s excited about the potential for Portraits to grow.
“How can we form a safe space for creatives to come network, meet each other and build different brands based on the community we’re building,” Howard said.
She also shared her advice for other young women chasing big dreams.
“We will have these dreams and thoughts about where we want to end up, but then we’ll say, 'Maybe not. Maybe I should be comfortable with where I’m at.' Don’t be intimidated by them. Go for it,” she said.