The AfroNouveau 100:
Bozoma Saint John AfroNouveau leader
Sometimes, the well-written stories are ours, and we are the authors. Bozoma has certainly made her life a well-written one by taking charge and becoming BOZOMA–a marketing powerhouse, creative genius, and inspiration to many.
In an environment where representation signifies power, Bozoma has distinguished herself as a bold and unapologetic leader in the Afro-Nouveau movement, earning global respect and recognition.By redefining what it means to be a Black woman, Bozoma is breaking barriers and shining in boardrooms, on stages, and in people’s hearts.
From Ghana to Global Influence
As a woman born to Ghanaian parents in 1977, Bozoma carries her heritage with pride. Her Ghanaian identity isn’t just a line in her well-written story but the primary plot that drives her forward. With every step, she has blended her West African boldness with a global outlook to build a career that transcends multiple industries.
Her Journey at Spike Lee’s advertising agency triggered the chain of events which led to her becoming a senior marketing executive at Pepsi, Apple Music, Uber, Endeavor and the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Netflix. Upholding these leadership roles at some of the world’s most influential brands, she has proven herself to be a leader, decision maker and goal getter. In each space she redesigns the entire setting, creating an upheaval and infusing fresh ideas for the greater good. Her marketing style at Apple Music helped infuse the tech space with culture. While her time at Uber marked the rebuilding of internal culture from inside out.
The Power of Authenticity in Leadership
Bozoma Saint John speaking at a leadership summitBozoma is distinguished not only by her achievements but also by her fearless authenticity:
“I do not shrink to fit spaces– I expand them to hold my truth”.
Her signature style in storytelling and marketing has earned her multiple recognitions, such as being named Forbes’s No.1 most influential CMO in 2021. Other recognitions include being inducted into the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement and the American Marketing Hall of Fame.
This is the core of AfroNouveau—redefining norms, embracing identity, and being fearless in becoming. Bozoma’s leadership portrays how the AfroNouveau woman can rise on their terms and without compromise.
AfroNouveau Trailblazer for the Next Generation
The daring plot of Bozoma’s story doesn’t stop in the corporate world. Her memoir, The Urgent Life, explores her personal life. She pours her heart and touches on grief, resilience and the urgency of living life with a purpose. Her memoir is not only inspiring but connects deeply with young AfroNouveau change makers. Bozoma depicts the act of embracing our full selves, from joy, sorrow and strength.
In being a Trailblazer, Bozoma stands tall in mentoring and empowering young leaders across Africa and the diaspora. From her work with Girls Who Code to many others, Bozoma remains committed to helping the Next Generation.
Dear AfroNouveau.
Bozoma Saint John isn’t only a symbol of success but a mirror in which AfroNouveau communities can see their limitless potential. As she says,
“If you have a strong voice, jump in there!”
Her story reminds us never to shrink to fit into old norms. We are here to reshape the narrative, and we must do so loudly and fearlessly.
You too have the power to be the author of your own story as our AfroNouveau 100 did. Join us as we celebrate Bozoma Saint John and 99 more innovators redefining Africa’s future.
