Dr. Christa Mahlobo is a research scientist with over 8 years of experience exploring the psychological needs and behaviors of Black Americans using qualitative and quantitative research methods. Her applied research experience has spanned across multiple fields, including travel and tourism, the arts and culture, and mindfulness and wellbeing. She completed her PhD at The Pennsylvania State University where her dissertation focused on examining adolescent precursors to early adult flourishing in Black Americans — specifically ethnic racial identity and socialization. Most recently, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania where her work focused on the intersection of race, ethnicity, and culture with flourishing through engagement in the arts and humanities.

In her spare time, she likes to practice what she preaches by traveling, attending wellness events and teaching yoga.

Tell us a little about what you will be working on for Word In Black:

As the Insights & Research Director I will be working on a slate of research projects across Word In Black’s topic areas — from health to culture — drawing insights from Black audiences about the things that matter to our community. 

What excited you most about joining us?

I was excited about the opportunity to work with a team of experts who are not only deeply committed to their craft but also to the impact that local media can have on Black communities. The idea of combining my research background with meaningful storytelling really motivates me.

Tell us a little about your background and how you came to this role:

My background weaves together research, community engagement, and equity-focused work. My research explores psychology and wellbeing in the Black community, and my consulting and program development experience covers diversity, equity, and inclusion in non-profit and education spaces. Along the way, I’ve worked at the intersection of data, narrative, and practice — helping organizations translate insights into action. Coming to this role felt like a natural step, because it allows me to bring those experiences into the local media space, where the stories we tell can directly shape understanding, trust, and flourishing in communities.

What do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities in the local media industry today?

I think one of the biggest challenges is sustainability — finding ways to uplift local journalism in a shifting media landscape. But alongside that challenge is an incredible opportunity: people are searching for trustworthy, community-centered reporting that reflects their lived realities. If we can leverage data, innovation, and authentic engagement with communities, I think local media can continue to be a primary place where people get information.

What keeps me up at night is the thought of communities losing access to reliable information — or worse, only having access to prominent narratives on social media that distort their realities. But what gets me up in the morning is the flip side: knowing that our work can directly change that. The chance to help create research and insights that strengthen journalism, give voice to underrepresented communities, and equip publishers with tools to thrive — that’s what excites me every day.