“Be Enough” Founder Brande Victorian Shares How the Power of Empathy has Helped Her Reach New Heights
To say that Brande Victorian is merely a Senior Editor is an understatement. The Black, bold, and beautiful Head of Entertainment at Essence Magazine is more than just a writer and executive; she is a highly sought-after speaker and creator of lifestyle platform “Be Enough” where she inspires women to heal from insecurity and doubt, and to realize that they are enough, while also acknowledging that these processes are part of an ongoing journey.
Victorian has done it all: from covering the Oscars, the Grammys, and the 2021 James Bond film premiere “No Time to Die” in London, she’s proven that she can navigate through any space with confidence and class. Having commanded the attention of her peers, Victorian has been featured in Forbes and has appeared on Good Morning America and by the Associate Press.
To date, she’s interviewed Icons and legends such as Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Will Smith, and Tina Turner, yet it’s her hard-work, determination, and inner-strength that make her one the most powerful women in entertainment — as well as her insightful global coverage on the most coveted red carpets in the world.
With high creativity, and enough energy to light up any room — the star journalist and editor is known for her engaging interviews and trending content. She has a way of keeping ears tuned in and eyes watching her every move and she continues to lead the conversations that impact the culture and shape perceptions of the Black experience.
Before stepping into her latest role at Essence, the illustrious woman on the rise made a name for herself at Hello Beautiful and Madame Noire. True to her calling, she always loved telling the stories of black women. Throughout her career, Victorian was profiled by Pose Magazine and her work has been featured on Emmy award-winning talk show The Real.
We caught up with Victorian ahead of Oscar weekend at the 2022 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon. The event, hosted by Damson Idris, honored Nia long (You People), Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), Quinta Brunson (Abbot Elementary), and Chante Adams (A Journal for Jordan) and more black luminaries in an eventful ceremony they coined “The Black Cinematic Universe.”
The media mogul wore a black two-piece silky pant suit with gold statement accessories that spoke for her in the same fashion her work speaks for itself — giving power, elegance, and sophistication. As she walked down the extravagant gold carpet reporters held out their microphones, this time she was the one being interviewed. Victorian opened up about her first year at Essence and the power of empathy.
Q. Tell us about your first year and experience as Senior Editor of Essence?
A. It’s been amazing! It’s been more than I ever could have imagined. I came once as a guest and I remember being in the audience and I was like man I just want to be one of those women who could be a part of this. You know it was so amazing , so to be able to put it together — amazing honorees, amazing presenters. And fortunately, the first year after COVID I’m proud, super proud.
Q. You’re known for your authentic storytelling and creativity. Tell us how you’ve been able to consistently create engaging content and unique angles — where does the magic come from?
A. I think it comes from a place of empathy, even now standing here now I’m nervous and anxious. When I think about it, celebrities feel the same way — so it’s like meeting them where they are. I call it being human centered. They have a lot going on in their moment, they’re stopping to talk to you. Meet them where they are, you know? That’s how I approach my interviews.
Q. What aspect of this ESSENCE luncheon are you most looking forward to?
A. I’m looking forward to the surprises. Cause we told you all a few things on the line up, but we have a surprise coming. You won’t be disappointed, I can tell you that much, you won’t be disappointed.
Follow Brande on Instagram @be_vic and @beenoughperiod
