This Black History Month, we are grateful to explore Black history on our inaugural ‘Legacy Lens’ series. The education system frequently gives us a watered-down version of Black history and minimizes our contributions. Many states have already banned and restricted books on Black history. We have always been here and are determined to remind others that our history will not be forgotten. 

Biography:

George “Conscious” Lee is a dynamic orator, innovator, educator, and influential content creator whose work sits at the intersection of media, socio-political issues, and popular culture. Purposefully provocative, he uses this approach to educate on topics like oppression and intersectionality, translating complex ideas for audiences from Gen Z to Baby Boomers. He believes transformation starts with consciousness, using dialogue to uncover what needs change.

Born in Bryan, Texas, Lee overcame childhood adversity to graduate from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s and two Master’s degrees. He made history as part of the first African-American duo to become the number-one seed at the National Debate Tournament, innovatively using hip-hop in arguments. Lee’s blend of academic expertise and cultural mastery fuels his impactful work through his podcasts, public lectures, keynotes and workshops. Lee believes: You cannot change what you don’t know needs to be changed. His work aids people in uncovering what needs to be changed and equips them with the tools on how to change. The starting point is “consciousness.” His style provokes dialogue and conflict meant to inspire transformation. Lee has developed a brand of educational entertainment that translates an understanding of oppression, consciousness, intersectionality, and gender identity to both the TikTok generation and baby Boomers alike.. 

With over 5 million dedicated followers, Lee’s influence is globally recognized. He is a two time NAACP Image Award Nominee, recipient of YouTube’s Content Creator Choice Award, an International Webby Award Nominee and a grantee of YouTube’s Black Voices Fund. His insights have been featured in major publications from Rolling Stone and Forbes to The New York Times and Business Insider.  

His views have garnered millions of views and been featured in Rolling Stone, Forbes, Essence, the Washington Post, Yahoo Life, The Atlantic, Business Insider, and The New York Times. In addition to being on the Content Advisory Board for The Fanbase App, he’s partnered with organizations including YouTube, TikTok, BET, NAACP, and many more! In his free time, Lee enjoys traveling, attending trail rides in rural Texas, and creating memories with his family.

Career Advice:

“Be consistent and execute the plan, even when you don't feel like it.”