Talent management has not always mirrored the diversity of the individuals it encompasses, but fortunately, there is one woman making strides to change this situation.
11th & Co
The inaugural Black woman-led and managed talent agency recently marked the growth of their enterprise with the official launch of their new location, 550 RMG, situated in Atlanta’s historically significant Old Fourth Ward district.
The festivities held last Saturday, May 17, gathered Atlanta’s top figures from entertainment, media, and technology sectors. Notable attendee Marlo Hampton, a cast member of “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” was present to celebrate the significant event.
The guests had the opportunity to experience the venue personally, enjoying various activities like games and purchasing merchandise. Outside, they could also find an 11th & Co. food truck serving delicious options. The main event of the night was a distinctive ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the grand unveiling of this innovative haven.
Elevating herself as a genuine “girl boss,” 550 RMG stands out as an enterprise completely owned by Ebonie Ward, who serves as the Chairwoman and CEO of 11th & Co. In an exclusive interview with newsinpo.space, Ward expressed her thoughts: “Operating as a wholly Black female-led talent agency carries significant responsibilities but also demonstrates the potential achieved through self-reliance. Instead of merely unlocking opportunities for others, we’re forging brand-new pathways grounded in purposefulness, quality, and inclusiveness. Our objective revolves around elevating the vast spectrum of Black talent, ensuring their narratives, expressions, and influence gain recognition across various levels. Beyond enhancing presence, our aim encompasses fostering ownership, fairness, and transformation.”
The 10,000-square-foot multifunctional creative area additionally accommodates four other enterprises owned by African Americans:
Six Degrees
(an Atlanta-based creative agency),
Genius Club
(an all-inclusive production company), 11th & Co.’s charitable arm
A Spot at the Table
, along with their forthcoming distribution company Nine Distribution, scheduled to debut in September 2025.
The area was designed by celebrated Atlanta-based interior decorator Annysa LaMantia, boasting facilities such as a personal recording studio and apartment, an editing and production room, individual meeting spaces, an expanded open kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, an outdoor terrace, and a display area for wardrobes.
We’ve embarked on a fresh chapter and an exciting start,” Ward remarked at the ribbon-cutting event. “I’m grateful to all of you for attending and for your ongoing support throughout this process. We’ve certainly come through challenging times, yet this marks just the beginning since progress never ceases with us.
