about us.

Originally founded as the Suncoast Black Communicators, the group became the Tampa Bay area’s affiliate of the National Association of Black Journalists in 1990. Now, the Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists represents journalists of color in the counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Manatee and Sarasota along the west coast of Florida.

The chapter’s purpose is to bring together people of African descent who work in media or media-related jobs in the Tampa Bay area.

our mission.

The chapter’s mission is to help ensure diversity in local media, and accurate, balanced coverage of communities of color while serving as a resource for both established and aspiring communicators of African descent.

The chapter is a 501©(3) organization with an executive board that consists of a president, vice president of print, vice president of broadcast, treasurer, secretary and parliamentarian.

In addition, NABJ divides its chapters nationwide into regions, with TBABJ categorized as Region III.

Annually, the chapter hosts the Griot Drum Awards, a ticketed event that includes scholarship awards, media awards and a banquet.

our goals.

Gathering black journalists with those who work in related fields, such as marketing or public relations.
Awarding scholarships to promising young students of African descent who plan to pursue careers as journalists.
Serving as a hub for employment opportunities in media.
Sponsoring events that encourage quality coverage of communities of color.
Sponsoring events that promote professional development among journalists of color.
Taking a position on journalism or media issues or defending members in grievances.