Jada F. Smith

Background:
While majoring in Broadcast Journalism at Howard University, Jada F. Smith served as managing editor of The Hilltop, Howard's historic student daily. In her senior year, she signed on as The Root's fall '09 intern to get her feet wet in the world of online publishing. She is now The Root's in-house contributor -- developing multimedia, brainstorming articles, blogging and adding an extra hand to the editorial team as they continuously churn out new content. When writing for The Root, Jada explores the African-American community's precarious place in pop culture and politics. Her work has also appeared on C-SPAN, The Atlanta Post and Honey Magazine. She's also been a guest commentator on National Public Radio.

ARTICLES:

Black Expats 2.0

For years, when it came to taking advantage of international travel, young black college grads lagged behind their peers. No more. International living is booming among millennials.

What Would the Pilgrims Say About Tofu?

Forget the pilgrims. What's my Southern family going to say when I skip the Turkey this Thanksgiving?

Does Hollywood Still Have a Brown Paper Bag Test?

When it comes to colorism, “Precious” is still the same old, same old.

Takin' It to the Street (Sesame Street, That Is)

On Sesame Street's 40th anniversary, The Root takes a look back at some of the show's guest appearances by some of our favorite black celebrities.   PLUS: Why Big Bird is still cooler than Dora the Explorer.

Why Does CNN Want to be MTV?

Morning news’ failed attempt to grow young.

BLOG POSTINGS:

Well Played, BET, Well Played

This year, the execs at BET made sure they'd be in on that Twitter "Trending Topic" action, by nominating insta-trend himself, 16-year-old Justin Bieber.

Tatyana Ali Misses the Target With "Love That Girl"

If there was any hope of a return to quality scripted television, it won’t come with “Love That Girl.”

Happy Holidays, from the cast of ___!

Clips of the Christmas episodes from our favorite sitcoms, turned holiday traditions, turned classics.

Mappin' All Over The World

Though "Empire State of Mind" may be blasting from almost every corner on the streets of NYC, there are a few other city songs that we think deserve some love too.

Why Does Chris Brown Want to ‘Transform’ Twitter Into a Therapy Session?

Yes, Chris, we know. And now, thanks to your Twitter page, we really know how much you miss Rihanna.

The Problem with 'Good Hair'

I was shocked when the mostly white audience began dying laughing at the trailer for Chris Rock’s documentary Good Hair.

BET Could Redeem Itself With 'The Game'

Adding new episodes of TV series "The Game" may be just be what it takes to save BET from complete cultural humiliation.

Will the Real Reformers Please Stand Up?

RNC Chairman Michael Steele showed up at Howard University. The black kids in attendance were ready to listen--but to what?

Mary J. Blige Reminds Us Why She's Still "The One"

"M.J.B. the M.V.P." seems to specialize in reinvention after more than a decade in the industry.

Law & Disorder

Meet TEWW blogger Jada F. Smith.