Black consumers and entrepreneurs with a shared love of travel will have the opportunity to gather together for a one-of-a-kind event meant just for them: The first-ever Black Travel Expo.
"The Black Travel Expo is important for the Black traveling public to learn how travel began for people of color,” said Maurice Foley, founder of the event. “It is a platform to hear amazing travel stories, receive great travel advice, learn how to travel on various budgets and find out who’s who in the Black travel industry. More importantly, to support black travel entrepreneurs, products, services and brands over one weekend and under one roof."
Taking place this year from Oct. 14-17 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, the inaugural event aims to “connect travel enthusiasts with top travel providers from around the U.S.”
It will be the only Black travel consumer and trade expo in North America.
“The Black Travel Expo is a greatly needed platform for Blacks who work in the industry, those who rely on our insights and leadership to make traveling choices, and for industry allies to continue to support diversity, inclusion and equitable opportunities for Blacks in travel and tourism,” said Stephanie M. Jones, founder of the National Blacks in Travel and Tourism Collaborative and keynote speaker at the event.
The Black Travel Expo is a greatly needed platform for Blacks who work in the industry, those who rely on our insights and leadership to make traveling choices, and for industry allies to continue to support diversity, inclusion and equitable opportunities for Blacks in travel and tourism.
Black leisure travelers spent $109.4 billion in 2019, according to a November 2020 report from the Black Travel Alliance and MMGY Global. Foley said that the research showed a need for an event specifically for people of color, leading to the creation of the weekend event.
During the event, up to 65 travel exhibitors can showcase their products and companies on Friday, Oct. 15, and Saturday, Oct. 16. Registration is now open and begins at $99. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Additionally, presenters will share travel news, trends and inspiration for future travel. Keynote speakers include Kellee Edwards, adventurer and Travel Channel host; Evita Robinson, founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe; Jones of the National Blacks in Travel and Tourism Collaborative; Denella Ri'chard, travel executive producer and television host of "Traveling with Denella Ri'chard;" and Jay Cameron, founder and CEO of Maximum Impact.
“Founder Maurice Foley’s vision was to create a place for the Black traveling public to learn about new destinations in the U.S. and globally,” Ri’chard said. “I’m thrilled to be selected as a keynote speaker, giving voice and inspiration to the future of Black travel. The time is right for Black leisure travel!”
The Details
Black Travel Expo
