Ballerific Woman: Ethiopia Habtemariam, President of Motown Records

In a perfect world, men and women would receive equal pay. African American women would be presented the same opportunities as their white counterparts. Rejection would be based on qualifications rather than race.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Unfortunately, this world is far from perfect, however, there are people, more specifically women, who have dedicated their time, money and education to make a positive change. They’ve used their experiences and their encounters with injustices to fight and/or create more opportunities for their children and their children’s children, in an effort to make the world a better place. They’ve put our pain and problems on their backs and created space for change, new opportunities for our brothers and sisters to excel and succeed in a world that is designed against us. This is #BlackExcellence. These are Ballerific Women.

“One thing I believe in is not accepting any limitations. I knew when I was 14 that I wanted to work in this industry. I haven’t stopped hustling toward that since.”- Ethiopia Habtemariam

The name Ethiopia Habtemariam may not sound familiar to many but it is definitely one to remember. Her remarkable career in the music industry began while many of us were still trying to figure out our career paths.

Currently, Ethiopia is the President of Motown Records and serves as the President of Urban Music/Co-Head of Creative at Universal Publishing Music Group. However, with a solid foundation in the music industry it’s no wonder she was appointed the position.

Habtemariam began her career at the age of 14 when she interned for LaFace Records for 4 years. Not long after graduating, she was promoted to an assistant position. In 2011, Habtemariam was named the Senior Vice President of Motown Records. While there, she has been responsible for finding, developing and signing artists such as Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, Keri Hilson, Ne-Yo, Miguel, J. Cole and Ciara.

For all her amazing accomplishments it’s no wonder she has been recognized by Billboard in their 30 Under 30 and 40 Under 40 list, The Hollywood Reporter’s “Women in Music” 2013 issue, Variety Magazine’s “Women’s Impact List,” and more.

Ethiopia has certainly paved the way for women to take charge in the music industry.