Shelby Stewart

Shelby Stewart is an accomplished Associate Editor at Essence Communications Inc. since July 2023, where responsibilities include managing daily content and curating newsletters. As a Contributing and Freelance Writer for Okayplayer since July 2021, Shelby specializes in listicle-style features and long-form culture journalism. Previous roles include News Editor and Senior Staff Writer at Houstonia Magazine, Freelance Writer for various organizations including EDITION by Modern Luxury and VMP (Vinyl Me, Please), and Creative Consultant for Nike's 40th Anniversary campaign. Shelby's journalism experience encompasses culture and entertainment writing at the Houston Chronicle and Business Insider, as well as early freelance work for Def Pen. Shelby holds a Master of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Houston and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Mass Communication/Media Studies from Dillard University.