Tina Sampay, widely recognized by her byline, Slauson Girl, stands at the helm of Slauson Girl Media (Group), a news and media organization proudly owned by a Black woman and headquartered in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. I help curate several platforms dedicated to delivering hyper-local news and valuable insights to the South Central/South L.A community.
During my undergraduate years, my journalistic ablities garnered attention with my weekly campus newspaper column, "Slauson Girl Speaks," winning first place in a multi-state college journalism competition. This achievement led to my appointment as Opinion Editor.
Returning to South Central, I've emerged as a valuable resource for residents, bridging the gap between the community and the multitude of city affairs. The outpouring of support and praise from the South Central/South L.A community affirms my dedication, passion, and commitment not only to my community but also to the art of Journalism.
My articles have graced the pages of reputable publications such as The Grio, BET, Rolling Out, L.A Focus, and The Wave Newspaper. I reported extensively on the aftermath of the George Floyd tragedy, flying to Minneapolis to interview the owner of Cup Foods, where Floyd was arrested and the 2020 riots.
My unwavering drive and purpose revolve around representing marginalized communities, including the one I was born and raised in. Slauson Girl epitomizes the "Ghetto Girl" in inner-city America, often overlooked in mainstream discussions. Through my branding and writings, I aspire to broaden perspectives surrounding girls in the inner city, championing our stories and experiences.
In 2022, I created the South Central Writers Guild, where she engages local Black and Brown youth in journalism through paid community projects and fellowships.
In February 2023, Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, representing the Crenshaw area, bestowed upon me the honor of being recognized as an Unsung Hero. Within the realm of my media outlet, I have tackled political and social issues affecting the local Black and Brown community.
An Unsung Hero, according to the California Legislative Black Caucus , their Black History Month Unsung Hero Award is an individual making substantial yet often overlooked contributions—someone whose bravery goes unnoticed. As part of this recognition, I was presented with a resolution and had the privilege of participating in a reception at the state Capitol in Sacramento. This esteemed award acknowledges those who selflessly contribute to their districts, and I am grateful to be acknowledged for my dedication to the extraordinary work within the communities I serve.