Chelsey Wilkins
Chelsey Wilkins is a creative digital marketer who currently holds a dual role at Pernod Ricard USA (PRUSA) as the Culture & Influencer Marketing Manager and Digital Engagement Manager for Martell Cognac and Tequila Avion. In her role, she manages the brands’ multi-cultural influencer program, which includes strategic brand partnerships, and content curation and ideation. As Engagement Manager, she leads the digital strategy for Martell and Avion’s owned social channels in the US, which includes social content development, engagement strategy, social listening and reporting.
Her accomplishments, glitzy instagram, and fancy friends aside—I know Chelsey as the big sister to one of my close friends. Chelsey’s sister Nicole and I were co-workers at Good Morning America, and Chelsey was always like the cooler older sister you’re dying to be like, but your drip could just never. This is a woman who is living life on her terms, and knows the meaning of, “What good is first class if my niggas can't sit?”.
Prior to her work in the industry, Chelsey managed digital content and strategy at Sony’s Columbia Records. She worked on digital marketing campaigns for Solange’s number one album A Seat At The Table, The Chainsmoker's debut project, and many others. She also produced digital content for MTV’s VMAs, Movie Awards and Unplugged series, winning several digital honors along the way.
Not to mention, Chelsey is a writer. She has contributed to culture-driving publications like Vibe, Essence Magazine, Ebony Magazine and more.
Sis is the real deal, and I’m honored to have her adorn our space. The following interview has been edited for brevity and length.
1.) What inspires you to do what you do professionally?
My role is to create advocacy and influencer programs along with digital content that resonates and engages multicultural millennial consumers. I’m always excited when I can partner with influencers of color and connect them to brands like ours. Driving culture forward is what motivates me to come to work each day.
2.) What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?
My mother. She is extremely determined and resilient. While growing up, I watched her sacrifice everything if it meant a better life for my sister and I. She’s been one of my biggest champions. No matter what, she encourages me to reach my highest potential. She’s a beautiful Black woman, and ever since I can remember she has empowered me to embrace my brown skin and curves with grace and confidence.
3.) How do you practice balance in your life?
It’s tough. I’ve always been obsessed with “the grind”. I felt like working in NYC and climbing the corporate ladder were goals and that more money and status would lead to happiness. COVID forced me to slow down A LOT and really pay attention to my mental and physical well-being. For the first time, I’ve had time to understand what I want out of life and what is important to me - family, true friends, and my time. I practice balance by being kinder to myself and choosing me everyday.
4.) How do you use your inherited gifts, platform, or particular privilege to give back?
There is so much power in mentorship. It’s crazy to think of myself as a mentor to others, because I remember when I was chasing people down trying to set up an informational interview to learn more about my industry. Now, other young women reach out to me for advice. I actively make time to share my knowledge and mentor others, especially young black women. That’s how I’m paying it forward.
5.) What person living or dead would you like to sit down for a meal with?
My ancestors of course! I learn from them and am guided by them daily. It would be incredible to sit down with my great-great-great-great grandma and hear about her experiences and outlook on life. There’s so much wisdom there and so much to learn from those that came before us.
6.) What’s your ideal cocktail, wine, or drink?
As someone who works in the spirits industry, there are certainly a lot to choose from. My drink of choice is tequila. I could go for a Passion Fruit Margarita right now!
7.) What’s your biggest vice?
Postmates. Just throw the whole app away. Lol
8.) Name one thing you’d like to be kinder to yourself about?
My body -- I’m a curvy girl which is something I’ve always struggled with. As I get older, I’m learning to embrace my curves and body more than ever. I’m learning to be grateful for the skin and body I’m in, and thankful to God everyday for good health.
9.) What’s your biggest insecurity?
I have a bit of imposter syndrome when it comes to my career and areas of expertise. Sadly, a lot of Black professionals in corporate America deal with this. I’m learning to separate my feelings from the facts. I know my skills and experience are strong, so there is no need to doubt whether I deserve to be in the rooms that I’m in.
10.) What outstanding goal do you have that you’ve yet to accomplish?
There are so many! Outside of career goals, I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the bass guitar. I just purchased my first bass and invested in an online course. Prayers up that I stick to it!