A Lelia Bundles

A’Lelia Bundles is a distinguished American journalist, news producer, and author, celebrated for her significant contributions to the field of journalism and her dedication to preserving the legacy of her great-great-grandmother, Madam C. J. Walker. Bundles graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and Radcliffe Colleges in 1974 and earned a master’s degree from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in 1976. Her early career began at NBC News, where she produced for major programs such as The Today Show and NBC Nightly News, showcasing her talent in high-pressure environments and her commitment to journalistic excellence.

In 1989, Bundles transitioned to ABC News, where she held several key positions, including deputy bureau chief and producer for World News Tonight with Peter Jennings. Her leadership extended to serving as the director of talent development and chair of a diversity council, where she played a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity within the newsroom. Bundles’ work has not only earned her an Emmy Award but has also established her as a respected figure in the media industry.

As an author, Bundles is best known for her acclaimed biography, “On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C. J. Walker,” which was recognized as a New York Times Notable Book and adapted into the Netflix mini-series “Self Made.” Her writings have contributed significantly to the understanding of black women’s history, earning her the Association of Black Women Historians’ Letitia Woods Brown Prize.

Beyond her writing, Bundles is a dedicated advocate for her family’s legacy, founding the Madam Walker Family Archives and serving as the brand historian for MADAM by Madam C. J. Walker. She actively participates on various nonprofit boards and has delivered motivational speeches at prestigious institutions, further solidifying her role as a leader and educator in the community. A’Lelia Bundles continues to inspire future generations through her work and commitment to social justice and historical preservation.