Tia Smith of talentedSOL Productions is Chosen by Gates-Funded Program

Bill Gates Announces Plans for Retirement to Pursue Philanthropic Interests

Tia Smith of talentedSOL Productions is Chosen by Gates-Funded Program to Document the Result of a Vaccine Clinical Trial in Africa

Los Angeles - Computer technology mogul, Bill Gates recently announced his plans for retirement in order to pursue his philanthropic interests full time with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Veteran producer and director, Tia Smith of talentedSOL Productions, LLC was hired by one of Gates’ funded programs to document the results of a recently concluded vaccine clinical trial conducted in Africa. The results of the trial are expected to be published by the end of 2006.

Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to reduce inequities and improve lives around the world. In developing countries, it focuses on improving health, reducing extreme poverty, and increasing access to technology in public libraries.

Smith has been featured in magazines such as Charisma, Gospel Today, Black Filmmaker, and Directors Uncut, and she landed a profile in the Christian lifestyle magazine, Precious Times. Marilyn White, CEO and publisher says, “Precious Times magazine selects businesswomen who truly love the Lord and are making an impact in the marketplace. We chose Ms. Smith after watching how she seamlessly maintained her Christlike behavior in front of her colleagues and when no one else was around. Her spirit shines so bright in the industry and she is the perfect example of one who displays Christ in the mainstream with quality product.”

With over a decade of experience, Smith has accumulated an impressive list of clients that span across North America and abroad. Her career began at Black Entertainment Television, where at 26 years old, she became the youngest Music Director at the network to program the billion dollar corporation which has over 1 million weekly Nielsen-rated viewers when her boss/mentor, Gregg Diggs left to pursue other ventures. Smith continuously proved herself at the network, serving as Senior Producer for the longest and highest rated program, “Bobby Jones Gospel” (2001-2004 seasons), in addition to creating “Jam Zone”, “Hit List” and “Top 25 Countdown.” Smith also co-created a myriad of programs such as “Lift Every Voice” , “Midnight Love” , “Video Vibrations” and the network’s first “All Access” shows. Smith also created specials for Mariah Carey, Wyclef, Brian McKnight, Usher, Brandy, Teddy Riley, Aaliyah, Ginuwine, D’Angelo, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliot and many more.