Traveling is a powerful way to explore new cultures, challenge our assumptions, and discover ourselves. But for Black trans individuals, traveling can also be a complex and potentially challenging experience due to racism, transphobia, and gender binaries, leading to increased surveillance, harassment, violence, and exclusion. This results in limited access to safe resources, erasure, and fear of targeting, making traveling complex and potentially dangerous for this community.
Read on to learn more about the 15 Black trans travel influencers who are breaking barriers and pushing boundaries in the travel community.
Ami (@amis_adventures)
Meet the black, queer, trans expat and world traveler sharing his journey through captivating videos and photos. Ami’s adventures span the hiking distance of New Zealand and exploring the streets of Tokyo, inspiring others to embrace their identity and travel freely.
Devin-Norelle (@DevinNorelle)
Follow Devin-Norelle on social media. Experience how they take the intriguing moments in their lives as a genderqueer person traveling the world. Their Instagram account features stunning travel photos, fashion, and insights into their journey. Devin-Norelle is also a writer and model, using their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+showcases visibility and acceptance.
Kai Isaiah Jamal (@kai_isaiah_jamal)
An artist, poet, and trans model, Kai Isaiah Jamal grew up in a working-class family in South London and never saw people who looked the way they felt as a young black trans man, which led them to become the role model they so desperately needed. Kai uses their platform to challenge societal norms and celebrate Black trans excellence. Harnessing the power of poetic captions and powerful visuals, Kai inspires others to live authentically and fearlessly. You can find photos of their travels and art in their personal stories.
Munroe Bergdorf (@munroebergdorf)
Monroe is a British model, activist, and DJ. She is a non-conforming advocate for trans rights, racial equality, and LGBTQ+ visibility. Munroe has traveled extensively and shares her experiences on her social media platforms. Her Instagram account features stunning travel photos, fashion, and powerful messages about self-love and acceptance. Munroe’s journey as a Black trans woman has inspired many, and she continues to break barriers in the fashion and beauty industry.
Aria Said (@ariasaid)
Aria, a trans activist, philanthropist, and strategist based in San Francisco, captures her fascination with the culture of ancient Egypt. This passion led her to visit the country, sparking childlike wonder for the first time in decades. Aria often partners with brands and travel companies to showcase life as a black trans traveler. By day, she runs a Resource Generation & Strategic Communications firm and is the founder/president of The Transgender District in San Francisco. Aria has traveled to countries like France, Egypt, and Switzerland.
Malu The Death Doula (@of_earth.and_seed)
Malu shares the untold stories of Black trans travelers, leveraging her influencer platform on YouTube and Instagram to inspire and educate. She tours the world extensively as a travel coach. South America and North Africa are just a couple of the places she’s toured and lived. She is also an end-of-life doula, and she has a school where she teaches others spiritual practices.
Shay Neary (@shadeyshay)
Raised in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, Shay Neary has become a trailblazer in the fashion industry. She uses her platform as a Black trans plus-size model to challenge beauty standards and promote inclusivity. Her travel content celebrates diversity, encouraging self-love and confidence among her followers.
Tiara Mack (@mackdistrict)
Have you heard about Tiara Mack? She is not only a Rhode Island state senator but also a fierce advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. As a black trans woman, she intertwines her political work with her travel pop, using her voice to push for equality and representation.
Peppermint (@peppermint247)
With a spirit that refuses to be dimmed, Peppermint captivates audiences worldwide as a Black trans woman who excels as a drag performer z3z3and singer. Her vibrant travels are interwoven with her dynamic stage presence, showcasing the richness of cross-cultural experiences.
