Black History: Debra Lee

Debra Lee has been recognized as one of the most powerful women in the entertainment business.   After being appointed, in 2005, as chairman and CEO of Black Entertainment Television (BET), the leading network for African-American entertainment throughout the nation, Lee has reinvigorated the network’s productions by providing quality, relatable and enjoyable shows for the masses.; shows such as, “Being Mary Jane” and “Husbands of Hollywood”, to name a few, have accounted for Lee’s legendary reign at BET.

Under her guardianship, BET’s viewers have increased, the company’s international market has grown, and the network’s possibilities are endless. Lee has been inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame, and was rightfully honored with the Distinguished Leadership Vanguard Award by the National Cable & Telecommunications Association. Her contributions towards the televising and broadcasting networks extend beyond BET; however, her feelings of greatest accomplishments reside within BET’s domain. When asked what advice she would give to women seeking leadership roles, she responded,

“People often say women are promoted on accomplishments and men are promoted on potential. We need to start fighting to be promoted on potential. Tell yourself, I haven’t done this job yet, but I’m smart and I can learn it. Be self-confident about that.”

written by Racqui