Issa Rae's Success and Achievements in Timeline

Updated: March 1, 2025

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Issa Rae.

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

August 11, 2011: Awkward Black Girl Kickstarter Success

On August 11, 2011, Issa Rae and Tracy Oliver were awarded $56,269 from 1,960 donations through Kickstarter to fund the rest of the first season of Awkward Black Girl, and released the rest of season one on Rae's YouTube channel.

2012: Forbes '30 Under 30' List Inclusion

In 2012, Issa Rae was included on the annual Forbes '30 Under 30' list in the entertainment section.

2013: Awkward Black Girl wins Shorty Award

In 2013, Awkward Black Girl won a Shorty award for Best Web Show.

2014: Forbes '30 Under 30' List Inclusion

In 2014, Issa Rae was included in the Forbes '30 Under 30' list in the entertainment section.

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: Insecure series release

In 2016, Issa Rae achieved recognition as the co-creator, co-writer, and star of the HBO television series Insecure.

2017: American Film Institute recognition

In 2017, the American Film Institute selected Insecure as one of the top 10 Television Programs of the Year.

2018: Golden Globe Award Nomination

In 2018, Issa Rae received a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy for her acting work on Insecure.

2018: Time 100 List Inclusion

In 2018, Issa Rae was included in the annual Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.

2018: Insecure Honored at Peabody Awards

In 2018, at the 77th annual Peabody Awards, Insecure was honored for "creating a series that authentically captures the lives of everyday young, black people in modern society."