Urban Magazine Celebrates a Media Powerhouse
Kirsten West Savali, Vice President of Content at iONE Digital, was honored by Urban Magazine in its annual “Women’s Issue.” The recognition highlights West Savali’s remarkable contributions to media and journalism. Known for elevating Black voices and preserving cultural narratives, she has spent over a decade amplifying stories that matter to the Black community.
“This honor is truly humbling,” West Savali told MadameNoire. “In every lifetime, I want to be a Black woman. Being recognized alongside phenomenal women shaping culture and media is powerful.”
The recognition positions her among leading women in film, media, fashion, business, and fitness, cementing her role as a cultural leader and truth-teller.
Career Growth and Impact at iONE Digital
West Savali’s journey at iONE Digital began in 2011 as a Contributing Editor. She returned in 2021 as Senior Director and was quickly promoted to VP of Content in 2022. Her leadership has driven record-breaking growth in audience traffic and revenue across iONE brands.
She fosters strong collaboration across sales, marketing, video, and social media teams, ensuring diverse voices and perspectives are centered in all storytelling. Her work includes the memorable 2025 conversation with Dr. Cornel West on the importance of resisting fascism, reflecting her commitment to powerful, socially conscious journalism.
Mentoring the Next Generation of Black Journalists
In 2025, West Savali helped launch the Bison ONE Newsroom, a partnership between NewsOne and student journalists at Howard University’s Cathy Hughes School of Communications. Under the mentorship of award-winning journalist Dr. Stacey Patton, the initiative trains aspiring Black journalists, ensuring that HBCUs continue to serve as incubators of cultural and political leadership.
“The work continues even when people don’t always notice,” West Savali explained. “There is beauty and power in that truth.” Her mentorship reflects her dedication to empowering future media leaders and amplifying stories that shape communities.
Recognition Beyond iONE Digital
A native of Natchez, Mississippi, West Savali previously served as executive producer at Essence Magazine and senior editor of news and politics. She is a respected cultural critic, regularly appearing on MSNBC and C-SPAN to discuss justice, politics, and Black life. She has also spoken at Harvard and Yale University, earning honors from the National Association of Black Journalists and inclusion in Ebony Magazine’s Power 100 list.
Her recognition by Urban Magazine adds to a long list of accolades celebrating her leadership, innovation, and commitment to preserving the legacies of Black communities through media.
