Elaine Welteroth is a distinguished American journalist, editor, author, and television host, renowned for her transformative impact on the media landscape. She began her career as a mascot for a local restaurant, showcasing her early enthusiasm for engaging audiences. Welteroth’s journey into the magazine industry began with an unpaid internship at Ebony magazine, where her dedication and professionalism quickly led to a permanent role as Beauty & Style Editor. Her innovative approach to beauty and culture set the stage for her future successes.
In 2011, Welteroth joined Condé Nast as the Beauty & Style Editor for Glamour magazine, where she advanced to Senior Beauty Editor. Her groundbreaking work at Teen Vogue began in 2012 when she became the Beauty & Health Director, making history as the first African-American to hold this position. Under her leadership, Teen Vogue shifted its focus to include critical discussions on politics and social justice, particularly during the 2016 U.S. presidential election, significantly broadening the magazine’s appeal and relevance.
Welteroth’s ascent continued as she was appointed editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue in 2016, becoming the second youngest and only the second person of African-American heritage to achieve this role in the magazine’s history. She spearheaded initiatives like the Teen Vogue Book Club and invited prominent figures to guest edit, fostering a culture of engagement and empowerment among young readers.
In addition to her editorial accomplishments, Welteroth has made her mark in television as a judge on Project Runway and as a host of the daytime talk show The Talk. Her memoir, “More Than Enough: Claiming Space for Who You Are,” further solidifies her influence as a voice for diversity and representation in media. With a commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, Welteroth continues to inspire and lead in her multifaceted career.