INTRODUCING

BOZOMA SAINT JOHN

Bozoma Saint John (known as Boz, rhymes with glows) is a self-described badass. And we 100% agree. Born in Connecticut, she spent her early childhood living in Kenya, DC, and Ghana, before moving to Colorado Springs at age 12. Her brilliance has shined over Pepsi-Cola, Apple Music, Uber, and now Endeavor (WME | IMG), home to some of the world’s largest film, sports, literary, and media talent. Boz is as fierce and energetic as she is thoughtful. She’s a total powerhouse - and we had the best time sitting down with her. Can’t wait for you to meet our latest #AOBOSSBABE.

The Interview

What is something you’d like to change about your work environment?

I would like more women of color in senior leadership positions across corporate America.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My 10 year old daughter, Lael. She is fearless and she has a vast imagination that forces me to also think beyond the rational.

What do you consider your duty is as a role model?

To be the best version of myself so other people can be the best versions of themselves.

What’s your go-to office outfit?

Whatever makes me feel powerful that morning. It could be leather or spikes or floral or anything in between.

With such a busy schedule how do you make time for yourself?

I consider myself my biggest priority so I always make time for me.

What are the biggest challenges you’ve encountered as a successful woman? How did you overcome them?

Macroaggressions because they are subtle, therefore it’s hard to combat individually, but I have learned it’s not petty to go after the small offenses rather than waiting for them to become big offenses.

At what moment in your life did you decide that you had redefined badassery?

I’m continuously redefining it so I don’t see it as past tense. It is a constant evolving definition.

Whose brain would you like to pick and why?

Cleopatra because she was a ruler and a lover and a mother and I want to understand how she dealt with the pressures of all three at the same time.

What is something you would like to accomplish in the next 5 years?

I don’t make 5 year plans because I try to live in the moment. I don’t even make plans for next week.

What is the one thing that you never leave you house without?

Lipstick. It is my armor.

What is the soundtrack to your life?

Playlist with a little bit of Beyoncé, a little bit of Patti LaBelle, a little bit of Michael Jackson, and a little bit of Paul Simon.

You’ve met a lot of interesting people in your career, if you could curate a fantasy dinner party with 8 people who would be there and what would the vibe be?

1. President Obama 2. Oprah Winfrey 3. The President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo 4. My maternal grandmother 5. Florence Griffith Joyner 6. John Elway 7. Tony Morrison 8. My daughter, Lael Saint John. The vibe would be a round table formally set with Ghanaian food and lots of wine.