Childhood and Education Journey of Issa Rae in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 1, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Issa Rae, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Issa Rae is an American actress, writer, and producer, notably known for co-creating, co-writing, and starring in the HBO series *Insecure*. Her work on *Insecure* garnered her multiple Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations. She is also the founder of Hoorae Media, a multimedia entertainment company.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

January 12, 1985: Issa Rae's Birth

On January 12, 1985, Jo-Issa Rae Diop, known professionally as Issa Rae, was born. She is an American actress, writer, and producer.

Others born on this day/year

2007: Stanford University Graduation

In 2007, Issa Rae graduated from Stanford University with a Bachelor of Arts in African and African-American Studies.

2011: Awkward Black Girl Gains Popularity

In 2011, Issa Rae's web series Awkward Black Girl gained wider popularity, leading her to abandon prospects of business school and law school.

May 2015: Essence Magazine Cover

In May 2015, Issa Rae appeared on the cover of Essence magazine's Game Changers issue, alongside Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, Debbie Allen, and Mara Brock Akil.

2016: Fundraising for Alton Sterling's Family

Following the police shooting of Alton Sterling in 2016, Issa Rae raised $700,000 for the Sterling Family Trust to help pay for the Sterling children to attend college.

2016: Mother's guest appearance on Insecure

In late 2016, Issa Rae's mother, Delyna Diop, was featured in season 1 of Insecure, playing Rae's role model in her guest appearance.

2017: "I'm rooting for everybody Black" Quote

On the red carpet at the 2017 Emmy Awards, Issa Rae told reporters, "I'm rooting for everybody Black." The quote went viral.

April 2019: Public Appearance of Engagement Ring

In April 2019, Issa Rae first wore her engagement ring publicly on the cover of Essence magazine's issue.

2020: Support for Black Lives Matter and BLD PWR

In 2020, Issa Rae and her staff supported initiatives within organizations like Black Lives Matter and BLD PWR in order to hold the police accountable and to defund the police following the rise of police brutality.