When I first saw BlackWeb2.0 over two years ago I liked it and dropped its founder Angela Benton (pictured) a note. I’ve kept an eye on BlackWeb2.0 ever since.

To say that the past decade has been tumultuous for Black media is an understatement. As far as I can see that tumult will continiue. We’ve seen sites we like such as Global Grind evolve, sites we’ve trusted like SOHH and All Hip Hop hold steady in turbulent times, and some we love like Vibe stumble and fall as we hold out hope for resurrection. Big sites like Interactive One are growing organically and through aquisition, but even they had to sacrifice GIANT magazine. And on the horizon are new sites like the still-in-Beta Creative Control TV that will show us some sides of the culture we haven’t seen in a while. But there’s still no leader.

I read BlackWeb2.0 as an early indicator of what to expect and what might work. Looking for that next leader. I want to use this space to talk to smart people who are building what’s next….

Read more at Fast Company, Black Web’s Next Up | January 17, 2010

Angela Benton was included in Ebony Magazine’s 2010 Power 150 list, a list that comprises the most influential African-Americans in American.  She appeared in the category of technology along side David Drummond (Google) and Ray Ramsey (OneEconomy).

For Angela Benton, a layoff two years ago gave her the opportunity to explore a new pastime that quickly blossomed into a thriving career. Noticing a void in the blogosphere, Benton started Black Web 2.0, a site that analyzes emerging Web trends as they relate to African Americans. She has since parlayed her brainchild into consultant work, speaking engagements, and other branding opportunities.

“When I started the blog, EbonyJet.com had just launched, and I wrote an article on the new Website from a design perspective,” Benton says. That post, along with constant fresh content, quickly propelled Benton from a hobbyist commenting on Web developments, to an industry expert.

Read more on BlackEnterprise.com’s article From Blogging to Business | November 30, 2009