Teja Smith, founder of Get Social, is a dynamic force in the digital world, leading an agency that has become a critical player in the social media landscape. Her agency, driven by a team of women of color, has made significant strides in shaping the online presence of prominent social justice organizations, including Rock The Vote and She The People. Teja’s leadership was pivotal in securing Vice President Kamala Harris’s position on President Joe Biden’s ticket, a testament to her agency’s expertise in crafting influential digital campaigns.
Teja’s passion for social justice is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Influenced by her family’s work in non-profits and her experiences growing up in Oakland, she has always been dedicated to causes that matter. “Social justice has always been a part of me,” Teja shares. “Working with causes that align with my values, especially alongside celebrities who are committed to making a difference, felt like the natural progression for me.”
Balancing the high-stakes campaign to get Kamala Harris elected as Vice President with other social justice initiatives was both challenging and rewarding. “It was a complex process, but I was thrilled to be a part of history,” Teja reflects. She continues to feel excitement about her current work, including ongoing presidential campaigning, and takes pride in supporting VP Harris on her journey.
Teja’s impact extends beyond political campaigns. One notable example is the #SchoolsNotPrisons campaign, which she managed in 2016. This initiative highlighted the school-to-prison pipeline issue through effective online strategies, demonstrating the power of digital platforms to drive social change. Additionally, her team’s work on voter registration and social justice advocacy has made a significant difference in political and social spheres.
However, promoting social justice through digital platforms is not without its challenges. Teja has faced issues such as combating misinformation and dealing with online hate trolls. “While you can’t completely overcome online trolling, staying focused on your mission and values is essential,” she advises.
To ensure that the messages crafted for social justice organizations resonate with diverse audiences, Teja leverages the unique perspectives of her team. “Being a woman of color agency allows us to bring a range of experiences and viewpoints,” she explains. This diversity helps create messages that connect with various demographics across ethnicities, ages, and locations.
For those looking to use digital media to advance social justice causes, Teja offers valuable advice: “Take full advantage of the access and opportunities digital media provides. Our ancestors would be amazed at the reach we have today, so it’s important to leverage these tools for positive change.”
To learn more about Teja Smith and Get Social, visit Get Social with Teja. Teja’s work continues to be a powerful example of how digital media can be harnessed to drive meaningful social progress.
