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Celebrating Black Excellence: The Journey of Omari Collins

Lifestyle

Celebrating Black Excellence: The Journey of Omari Collins

Feb 16, 2026

February isn’t just a month—it’s a movement. For Emmy-winning producer and HBCU alum Omari Collins, Black History Month isn’t a calendar event, but a mirror. “It forces me to check whether my work is adding to the legacy or just benefiting from it,” he shares. His father’s words echo in every project he touches: “If you stand on shoulders, you better build something higher.” That generational wisdom is Omari’s north star—a reminder to approach each day not just with visibility, but with intention, honesty, and impact.

Clifford Taylor posing squatting down

Omari’s journey began at an HBCU, where, for the first time, he felt empowered to be “fully Black and fully excellent at the same time.” There, surrounded by people who looked like him and expected greatness, Omari’s confidence and sense of purpose sharpened. “You realize quickly you’re not just representing yourself—you’re carrying a lineage.” That lineage would become the foundation for a career dedicated to both honoring and expanding Black excellence in media.

Clifford Taylor with Cam Newton

Representation, Omari admits, has been both the challenge and the mission. Early in his career, he rarely saw anyone who looked like him in decision-making roles. His father’s guidance rang true: “Power isn’t just being in the room—it’s deciding what the room is for.” Determined not just to participate but to influence, Omari learned every side of the business, steadily working his way into roles where he could shape not only stories, but the spaces where those stories are decided.

Clifford Taylor at UF celebration

When Omari took home an Emmy for “4th and 1” - the sports podcast he co-hosts with Cam Newton, it wasn’t just personal validation—it was confirmation for Black creatives everywhere. “Our stories, when told with excellence and truth, belong on the biggest stages,” he says. “We don’t have to wait for permission to be great. We just have to be undeniable.”

Atlanta, Omari’s adopted home, has been a constant source of inspiration. In this city where faith, entrepreneurship, artistry, struggle, and triumph intersect, Omari’s voice has grown both rooted and fearless. “Atlanta teaches you that Black stories are expansive.... It’s rooted but forward-thinking. That balance has shaped my voice—honoring where we come from while being bold about where we’re going.”

Clifford Taylor in sunglasses and Jordan apparel

Now leading creative efforts at Iconic Saga, Omari is intent on telling stories where Black people are complex, layered, and powerful—where trauma isn’t the only headline. “Stories about leadership, faith, resilience, love, and vision,” he explains, “because as my father always said, ‘Tell the whole story, not just the pain.’”


Omari’s respect for legacy is matched by his belief in innovation. “You honor legacy by not repeating it—you expand it. Legacy isn’t a museum; it’s a foundation.” That perspective has carried him through the challenges of breaking into leadership. “One of the biggest challenges was being seen as capable beyond talent. I had to prove I could lead rooms, manage budgets, and build vision—not just show up on camera. I navigated that by staying prepared and staying consistent. Excellence creates leverage.”

Clifford Taylor with his YouTube plaque

With every door Omari opens, he remembers the responsibility that comes with access. Mentorship, advocacy, and meaningful introductions are all part of his mission. “Change doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when someone decides to move the gate.

”Asked what he’d say to young Black creatives, Omari doesn’t hesitate: “Tell the story only you can tell—but tell it well. Learn the craft, learn the business, and protect your integrity. Don’t chase trends; build legacy. And remember: your voice isn’t powerful because it’s loud—it’s powerful because it’s rooted.”

As Hibbett celebrates Black History Month, Omari Collins reminds us that legacy is living, leadership is a responsibility, and the next chapter is always being written. Together, we keep building something higher.

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