Think back to a mentor in your life who was vested enough to coach you and create opportunities for you to shine. How did that relationship impact your trajectory? Helen Aboah @HelenAboah had many mentors but two women of color, in particular, stood out as early sponsors whom she credits with shifting her dynamic career. Helen is the Chief Executive Officer of @UrbanZen, a design vision and philosophy company founded by fashion icon Donna Karan @Donnakaranthewoman. Helen’s cross-industry career spans fashion, hospitality, health and wellness, and entertainment, with a deep foundation in the global luxury goods market across wholesale and retail (digital and physical channels).  

 

From the time that Helen joined the executive team at @LVMH, her journey through the creative side to merchandising product development strategies gave her the perspective and expertise to lead Urban Zen’s iconic expansion globally. Helen and I chat about her vantage point as a Black female executive, her timely decision about motherhood, and the relevance of Black excellence in white spaces. 

 

Tune in to hear her answers to these and other questions:

 

What’s the difference between mentorship and sponsorship?

What role can allies play in making a long-term impact?

How a global brand addresses conscious consumerism and economic sustainability?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.