Morgan DeBaun: A Trailblazer in Media and Tech - The Inspiring Journey of Blavity's Founder
- J.D Singletary
- Sep 5, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 6, 2023
Introduction Morgan DeBaun: A Trailblazer in Media and Tech
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, there are those who not only chart their own course but also pave the way for others to follow. Morgan DeBaun, the founder, Chairman, and CEO of Blavity, is one such visionary leader who has left an indelible mark on the media and technology landscape. Her remarkable journey from a college student with a dream to a prominent CEO is an inspiring testament to the power of innovation, determination, and a deep understanding of the changing media landscape. In this blog post, we'll delve into Morgan DeBaun's life, her journey with Blavity, and the valuable lessons aspiring entrepreneurs can learn from her.

Early Life and Education
Morgan DeBaun was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She attended Washington University in St. Louis, where she pursued a degree in economics and corporate strategy. It was during her time at college that she began to realize the transformative potential of technology and social media. This is when Morgan DeBaun started her path to become a true Trailblazer in Media and Tech!
The Genesis of Blavity
Blavity, a portmanteau of "Black" and "Gravity," was founded in 2014 by Morgan DeBaun along with co-founders Jonathan Jackson, Jeff Nelson, and Aaron Samuels. The platform was born out of a desire to create a space where Black millennials and Gen Zers could share their stories, perspectives, and experiences in an authentic and unapologetic manner.
Morgan DeBaun's vision for Blavity was clear from the start: to amplify the voices of Black creators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who often went underrepresented in mainstream media. She saw a gap in the market and seized the opportunity to fill it, driven by her passion for media, technology, and the desire to create positive change in her community.
Blavity's Growth and Impact
Under Morgan DeBaun's leadership, Blavity quickly gained traction and expanded its reach. The platform became a hub for content that celebrated Black culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Through various verticals, including news, lifestyle, and events, Blavity provided a space where Black voices were not only heard but also celebrated.
One of the pivotal moments in Blavity's journey was the launch of AfroTech, an annual tech conference aimed at showcasing Black talent and fostering diversity in the tech industry. This event, among others, solidified Blavity's position as a leader in the media and tech world.
Lessons from Morgan DeBaun
Identifying a Niche: Morgan DeBaun's success with Blavity demonstrates the importance of identifying a niche in the market. She recognized the need for a platform that celebrated Black culture and entrepreneurship, and she acted on that insight.
Resilience: Building a startup is no easy feat, and DeBaun faced her fair share of challenges along the way. Her resilience and determination were key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Community Building: Blavity's success is built on the foundation of a strong and engaged community. DeBaun's ability to foster this community through authentic storytelling and inclusive events has been instrumental in Blavity's growth.
Diversity and Inclusion: Morgan DeBaun's commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially in the tech industry, is a lesson for all entrepreneurs. She has actively worked to create opportunities for underrepresented groups and break down barriers.
Conclusion
Morgan DeBaun's journey from a college student with a dream to the founder, Chairman, and CEO of Blavity is nothing short of remarkable. Her dedication to amplifying Black voices, her resilience in the face of challenges, and her commitment to diversity and inclusion serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. In Morgan DeBaun, we find a trailblazer who has not only achieved unbounded success but is also dedicated to paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps. Blavity, under her leadership, continues to thrive as a testament to the power of innovation and community.
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