Today marks an exciting milestone for Travel Noire as we proudly announce our integration into the Blavity Inc. family. From its inception, Travel Noire was envisioned as more than just a travel platform; it was conceived as a movement to redefine perceptions of work and travel, particularly for people of color. The aim was to demonstrate that travel is an inclusive experience for everyone and to foster a workplace culture that transcends traditional boundaries, embodying the spirit of a close-knit family. Our ambition was to cultivate a significant yet intimate entity, a powerful force that felt inherently right and impactful.
Over the past four years, Travel Noire has been incredibly fortunate to achieve remarkable milestones. We’ve built an award-winning platform, curated experiences for thousands of travelers across diverse global destinations, embraced a flexible work environment that prioritizes happiness and inspiration, and offered unparalleled vacation flexibility. Together, we’ve made a meaningful impact on the landscape of travel, carving out a unique space for diverse voices and experiences. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Entrepreneurship is an unparalleled adventure, one that truly tests and shapes you in profound ways. The highs are exhilarating, filled with moments of pure joy and laughter, while the lows can bring tears and moments of doubt. There have been times of immense peace and periods of intense turmoil, moments where the desire to quit felt overwhelming. Throughout this rollercoaster, the spirit of community within the entrepreneurial world has been a constant source of strength, with fellow entrepreneurs offering support and encouragement during challenging times, just as we’ve aimed to reciprocate.
Reflecting on this journey, it’s clear that divine guidance has been instrumental in orchestrating every step of Travel Noire’s path. While the full story will unfold in due time, for now, there’s immense comfort in embracing this new chapter with faith and anticipation.
A visionary endeavor is always amplified by the individuals who rally around it, each contributing uniquely to its growth. Along the way, we’ve been privileged to learn from mentors, cherish collaborators, engage with those who challenge us to evolve, and gain wisdom from teachers in unexpected forms. The remarkable individuals who have been part of the Travel Noire story over these past four years have been indispensable; our achievements would simply not have been possible without their dedication and passion.
Vision alone is a starting point; it’s the fusion of vision with dedicated action that yields tangible results. To every person who aligned their actions with the vision of Travel Noire, we extend our deepest gratitude. A heartfelt thank you to the entire Travel Noire staff, our insightful advisors, committed fellows, and tireless volunteers. You have collectively transformed the journey of building this company into one of the most profoundly transformative experiences imaginable.
To our esteemed partners, extended team members, and vendors worldwide, it has been an immense honor to collaborate with you in crafting unparalleled and life-enriching experiences across the globe. You are the very essence of what we have collectively built, the heartbeat that sustains our mission. Thank you.
Our extended family of contractors has infused Travel Noire with a richness that words can scarcely capture. From the power of compelling copy to captivating design, seamless development, and efficient processes, your voices and talents have been invaluable. Thank you for your exceptional contributions.
Words alone cannot fully express the depth of gratitude for the sacrifices, dedication, and time each of you has invested in elevating this brand. My appreciation for you all is profound and unwavering.
To our clients, who have been incredible teachers over these past years, your passion for Travel Noire transcends all boundaries. While we may not have always been perfect, we are deeply thankful for your enduring loyalty, constructive feedback, and steadfast support.
For our valued Compass and TN Experiences clients, rest assured that this transition will not impact your services in any way.
To everyone who has shown love for Travel Noire and contributed in any form—whether through a like, an email, a comment, or a share—thank you. You are the driving force behind our work and the reason we are committed to pushing forward, continually striving to create meaningful connections and experiences within the travel community and beyond.
Morgan DeBaun, your unwavering belief, support, and vision from the early days in San Francisco in 2013 to now, serve as a constant reminder that collective success elevates us all. Thank you for the often unseen and unacknowledged aspects of entrepreneurship—the relentless dedication, personal sacrifices, moments of solitude, tears, uncertainty, and late nights. Your invitations, words of encouragement, and hours-long phone calls have been lifelines. Thank you for your tenacity. Many may have doubted the path, but this is the life we’ve chosen—selling visions and making them reality. Thank you for spearheading this movement and bringing your initial vision to fruition. With love and deep appreciation.
To the entire Blavity team, a sincere thank you. We are energized and excited to build together in this new chapter. Let’s get to work, creating even greater impact and opportunities within the travel space and beyond.
Z.
