Meet The Award-Winning Entertainment Publicist & Journalist Desirae L. Benson
Today, we’d like to introduce you to Desirae L. Benson. Read her story of success and get connected with this power house in the Luxurae Collective.
To get our readers familiar with you, tell us a little about yourself and the path that led you to seeking a career as an entertainment publicist.
I’m a dynamic force in the world of entertainment, PR, and media, known for elevating brands, amplifying voices, and making power moves behind the scenes. My path has been anything but ordinary—it’s been a journey of passion, perseverance, and an unrelenting commitment to excellence.
With a background deeply rooted in storytelling and strategic brand positioning, I’ve built a career that merges my love for music, film, and culture with my expertise in public relations. As a proud member of the Recording Academy/GRAMMYs and a trusted publicist for some of the most talented artists, actors, and industry professionals, I don’t just help my clients get noticed—I help them build legacies.
I’ve worked with Grammy winners, Emmy members, rising stars, and industry legends, ensuring their stories are told with authenticity and impact. Whether it’s securing high-profile media placements, navigating red carpets, or crafting PR strategies that position my clients for long-term success, I operate with precision and purpose.
Beyond my work in entertainment, I’m also a dedicated advocate for empowerment and representation. Whether it’s hosting major events, co-producing fundraisers, or sitting down with influential voices to discuss issues that matter, I bring my full self to every opportunity, making sure the people I work with shine just as brightly as they deserve.
At the end of the day, I’m not just a publicist—I’m a brand architect, a strategist, and a visionary who believes in making things happen. My journey has been about taking risks, breaking barriers, and making a lasting impact. And trust me, I’m just getting started and I’m so excited about my continued success.
What has been your greatest inspiration in doing this work?
My greatest inspiration comes from the stories that deserve to be told—the voices that need to be heard and the impact that can be made when the right message reaches the right audience. Whether it’s an artist pouring their soul into a song, a filmmaker bringing a vision to life, or a thought leader shifting the culture, I’m driven by the power of storytelling and its ability to connect, uplift, and transform.
Authenticity is my foundation. In an industry where trends come and go, I remain true to my mission: to amplify voices with integrity, strategy, and purpose. I don’t chase clout—I cultivate lasting influence. My creativity is rooted in understanding the heart of each brand and individual I work with, crafting narratives that are not only compelling but deeply aligned with their truth.
I stay authentic by always leading with passion, surrounding myself with innovators, and never losing sight of why I started. Creativity isn’t just about making noise—it’s about making an impact. And that’s exactly what I do, every single day.
Monetizing your creativity is no easy task. Was the journey to making this happen difficult for you? What were some of the highs and lows?
Honestly, monetizing my creativity wasn’t difficult because when you do what you love, the money follows. My passion for storytelling, brand elevation, and strategic PR naturally aligned with my ability to create opportunities—not just for myself, but for my clients. I built my brand on authenticity, expertise, and results, and that’s what keeps the momentum going.
Of course, every journey has its highs and lows. The highs? Seeing my clients thrive—Grammy considerations, major film festival selections, national media features, and career-changing collaborations. Being part of their success and knowing that my work played a role in elevating their brands is incredibly fulfilling.
The lows? Learning that not everyone operates with the same level of integrity or vision. Early on, I had to set strong boundaries and recognize my value. I stopped saying yes to just any opportunity and started being intentional about the projects I take on. That shift changed everything.
At the end of the day, I’m proof that when you master your craft, move with purpose, and stay aligned with your passion, success isn’t a question—it’s a guarantee.
How does your creative work impact women as a collective?
My work is deeply rooted in uplifting and empowering women, not tearing them down. In an industry where women often have to fight to be seen, heard, and valued, I make it my mission to ensure they receive the recognition, respect, and opportunities they deserve. Whether it’s securing high-profile media features, amplifying their brands, or positioning them as power players in their fields, my goal is always to help women win.
I believe in collaboration over competition. The success of one woman is a victory for us all, and through my work, I strive to create spaces where women feel supported, celebrated, and equipped to thrive. Whether I’m working with artists, entrepreneurs, or industry leaders, I ensure that their narratives are told authentically and powerfully, breaking down barriers and setting new standards for excellence.
Through mentorship, storytelling, and strategic brand elevation, I help women build legacies—not just moments. My impact isn’t just about getting them in the room; it’s about making sure they own the room. When we lift each other up, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. And I’m committed to making sure that every woman I work with knows she is seen, she is valued, and she is unstoppable.
As an entrepreneur, what systems have you put in place to manage your physical and mental health and maintain focus in your business?
I make time for me—always. As a wife, a mother to a young child, and a powerhouse in my industry, I understand the demands of balancing it all. But one thing I refuse to do is pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t optional for me; it’s a priority.
Whether it’s setting boundaries, carving out quiet moments to recharge, or indulging in things that bring me joy, I make sure to nurture myself just as much as I nurture my work. I believe that when I take care of myself—mentally, physically, and emotionally—I show up stronger, more creative, and more impactful in everything I do.
At the end of the day, success means nothing if I’m too drained to enjoy it. So, I give myself permission to pause, to breathe, and to refuel—because a well-rested, well-loved me is the best version of me. And that’s exactly who I bring to the table every single day.
What is some advice you provide to your clients or even other women entrepreneurs?
Trust your gut—even when others may not understand. Your journey is about you, not them. When you’re building a career rooted in creativity, there will always be people who don’t see the vision, question your path, or try to impose their own fears onto you. Don’t let that shake you.
Believe in your talent, stay consistent, and move with intention. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but when you align passion with strategy and remain unwavering in your purpose, the right opportunities will come. Stay true to yourself, bet on your gifts, and remember: the people who once doubted you will eventually have no choice but to respect what you’ve built. Keep going.