HBCU Trailblazers Zaria Slaughter and Jaia Jones Redefine Representation in Media

Two HBCU students are using storytelling and strategy to reshape how Black women are seen and heard in the media world—one interview, one campaign and one opportunity at a time.

Image Credit: Zaria Slaughter

Zaria Slaughter and Jaia Jones, seniors at Florida A&M University and Texas Southern University, are showing that the next generation of media professionals is driving change in the industry rather than waiting for it to happen. Through their personal endeavors, internships with influential organizations and unshakable faith, both ladies are helping to shape a new narrative for young Black voices in the media.

When Slaughter transferred to Florida A&M University (FAMU) in 2022, she thought she was behind. Surrounded by established student leaders, she worried she might not catch up. But that doubt quickly transformed into determination.

“I came to FAMU as a transfer student and thought I was behind,” Slaughter said. “But I realized everything happens for a reason—and God is always on time.”

Long before attending college, the public relations major, who calls herself a "former theater kid," developed a deep affection for storytelling. She liked musical theater as a child, but she quickly discovered that the effort that goes on behind the scenes is what really makes a show.

“I may not be the best singer, but I knew there were people behind the scenes who made the magic happen—and that’s what I wanted to do.” The student said.

Slaughter's pursuit of media and communications, where she immediately established herself, was prompted by her creative spark. She worked as an intern for the NBA All-Star Weekend in 2024, assisting with digital content and media relations management. She describes her experience as "life-changing" after enrolling in the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) mentorship program offered by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame later that year.

“I got to interview legends like Usher, LL Cool J and Taraji P. Henson,” Slaughter said. “It taught me to stay professional, even when I’m starstruck. I want to have longevity in this field.”

Her faith, she said, is the constant force guiding her journey.

“My faith is my foundation. Without God, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And my mom, she’s my rock. She keeps me grounded when things get tough.” Slaughter said

In ways that reflect her love of opportunity and mentoring, Slaughter is also giving back to her community. Recently, she pitched and led an event that brought together the cast of The Chi, the Oak View Group, and FAMU students.

Slaughter is spearheading an innovative collaboration event during FAMU's homecoming week, bringing the Oakview Group to campus in partnership with Media Girls Network. Which happened on Wednesday, Oct. 15, the event represents a strategic opportunity for HBCU students to engage directly with a major sports and entertainment venue management company.

By leveraging her internship and relationship with the Oakview Group, the media professional aims to create a meaningful networking platform that provides students with real-world industry insights and potential career connections. 

The event is part of her broader mission to create pathways for HBCU students in the entertainment and media industries, demonstrating her commitment to providing opportunities for her peers. 

Additionally, the collaboration extends beyond this single event, with plans to involve students in upcoming projects like the T-Pain concert on Friday and the HBCU Classic in Las Vegas, showcasing her innovative approach to professional development and community engagement.

“One of my biggest goals was to bring opportunities back to my HBCU,” she said. “I wanted to give students access to rooms they didn’t even know existed. That’s my proudest accomplishment so far.”

Image Credit: Jaia Jones

Jaia Jones is creating her own legacy at Texas Southern University (TSU), more than 800 miles away, by using digital storytelling and financial literacy. Jones, a student majoring in marketing, characterizes her entry into the media as completely untraditional."

“I’m a COVID kid. When I graduated in 2020, I didn’t even know media was a thing. But once I learned how marketing connects to storytelling, I fell in love with it.” Jones said. 

Jones's work is concentrated on empowering Black women in the media and dispelling myths that frequently restrict their visibility. She was able to hone that aim during her summer internship with Chevrolet and The Black Press in Houston.

Working with the Forward Times, a local newspaper in her city, was a life-changing professional experience. During this experience, she learned valuable lessons about digital media and Black media from her publisher. The key insight she gained was that digital media and Black media are interconnected, and that storytelling is deeply personal. 

“My publisher told me, ‘Your voice is your personality.’ That really changed my mindset. I realized I could teach, inspire and still be authentically me.” Jones said.

One of her most significant initiatives, the financial literacy campaign "Want to Get Paid," was the result of her sincerity. The project, which stands for Prepare, Apply, Invest and Discipline, was created to teach college students how to handle their finances and comprehend taxes.

Her project aims to combat the culture of overconsumption on social media by providing practical financial advice tailored to college students. She's particularly passionate about breaking the silence around financial discussions in Black communities and empowering students to take control of their financial futures.

“We don’t talk about finances enough, especially as young Black students,” Jones said. “I wanted to make something that was both educational and relatable.”

Through partnerships with TurboTax and Credit Karma, Jones transformed her campaign into a national initiative that reached students across multiple HBCUs.

Success hasn't, however, been without self-doubt. Throughout her time at college, Jones acknowledges that she has struggled with imposter syndrome.

“I’ve had moments where I’ve questioned if I belong, but I’ve learned that rejection isn’t bigger than my goals. My faith and the people around me keep me grounded.” The student shared.

Both women agree that the media industry can be intimidating—but confidence and community make the difference.

Jones reiterated the concept, emphasizing self-branding and balance.

“As students, we already have the perfect platform to build our brands,” Jones said. “It’s about showing your professionalism while staying true to yourself. That’s how you make a lasting impact.”

Slaughter and Jones are both thinking about legacy as graduation draws closer. For them, success is about generating opportunities and motivating people to pursue their own goals, not about celebrity or followers.

“No goal, no matter how big or small, is unattainable,” Slaughter said. “You just need faith the size of a mustard seed.”