In an exciting development for the beauty and fashion industries, a new talent agency named Twenty-four Eleven has launched, spearheaded by industry veteran Jay Lopez. Based in New York, Lopez aims to bridge the gap in representation of diverse talent, particularly focusing on Latin and BIPOC creatives who have traditionally faced systemic barriers. With a rich background as an agent at William Morris Endeavor and experience in talent management at other major agencies, Lopez recognized the urgent need for change. He firmly believes that while discussions around diversity are common, the lack of infrastructure to support meaningful and long-term representation is a critical issue that must be addressed.
Lopez articulated his motivation behind the agency’s creation, stating, “It felt like there was a gap in the market.” Many industry conversations around diverse creatives often remain superficial, lacking follow-through and depth. This realization inspired Lopez to establish Twenty-four Eleven as a dedicated platform that not only champions diverse talent but also provides the necessary tools and resources for long-term success in the industry. His vision is clear—he wants to create an environment where artists can thrive without being hindered by the invisible barriers that have historically limited their opportunities.
At the heart of Twenty-four Eleven’s mission is an intentional focus on crafting meaningful careers for promising talents. Lopez emphasized, “Latin and BIPOC artists have faced barriers to entry and career growth… not because of a lack of talent, but due to systemic roadblocks that limit access and visibility.” The agency aims to dismantle these barriers by actively promoting and representing artists who deserve to shine in an industry often dominated by a narrow demographic. It’s not just about talent; it’s about ensuring those talents are acknowledged, celebrated, and given the opportunities they deserve.
As it kicks off, Twenty-four Eleven has already attracted a talented roster that includes notable figures such as celebrity makeup artist Karina Milan, known for her work with Ice Spice and Yara Shahidi, hairstylist Cynthia Alvarez who has styled stars like Auli’i Cravalho and Ego Nwodim, and stylist Stephanie Escobar, who has worked with Maluma. This impressive lineup illustrates Lopez’s commitment to showcasing artists who have made significant contributions to the cultural landscape while also embodying the diversity the agency promotes. The caliber of talent that Twenty-four Eleven represents speaks to Lopez’s vision of creating a space where diverse creatives can flourish.
Beyond just talent representation, Twenty-four Eleven offers comprehensive support services aimed at nurturing the careers of its artists. These services include managing bookings, enhancing social media presence, providing career mapping, and even additional public relations support. Lopez is keen on maintaining a curated roster to ensure each artist receives personalized and dedicated service, stating, “We’re making sure we’re keeping our roster small so we’re able to give each person the bespoke service that we’re founded on.” This hands-on approach underlines Lopez’s understanding that true representation goes beyond simply signing talent; it involves a commitment to their growth and success in a competitive industry.
Lopez reiterated his commitment to doing things differently, highlighting that Twenty-four Eleven is designed to sit at the intersection of culture, subculture, consumer behavior, and creativity. By fostering an inclusive environment and challenging the status quo, the agency aims to reshape the narrative around who gets to participate in and influence the realms of beauty and fashion. With its founding principles geared towards genuine support and sustainable representation, Twenty-four Eleven aspires to pave the way for a more equitable future within the industry, enabling the rich diversity of talent to finally take center stage.