One of the most influential gay men in America in 2002, Emil Wilbekin, is an openly-gay businessman with a “vibe” that cannot be matched.
He is the vice president of developing for all of the Marc Ecko enterprises. This fashion label Ecko brand includes a number of fashion lines including Unltd., Cut & Sew, Red, Kids, and Watches. Each fashion line contains different items with a different style or purpose to them.
He is also the former editor-in-chief for Vibe magazine, a publication owned by Quincy Jones. This is a popular publication centering on urban culture and urban music. Now Wilbekin focuses on his role as the vice president for all brand development for Marc and all of the various facets of his entire designer label.
Emil Wilbekin was born in 1968 in Cincinnati. He graduated from Hampton University and the Columbia University Graduate Program for Journalism located in NYC. He joined up with Vibe magazine in 1992, showcasing his extensive resume, which included editing jobs for Chicago Tribune, People Magazine, Metropolitan Home, and Associated Press. Wilbekin has contributed to a number of different publications and eventually went on to become the editor-in-chief for Vibe in 1992. Under Wilbekin’s leadership, Vibe magazine was able to win a 2002 National Magazine Award.
Today, Wilbekin is the vice president for all brand development for the fashion label. He also serves as a board member for the editorial team at Complex, a magazine that is owned by Marc Ecko as well. Emil Wilbekin is also a philanthropist and so he has served on a number of boards including The Brotherhood/SisterSol, American Society of Magazine Editors, Design Industries Fighting Aids, as well as 24 Hours for Life.
Wilbekin was named one of the most influential gay people in the United States in 2002 by Out magazine.
