A Globetrotting Trailblazer Breaks Boundaries
Jessica Nabongo, a 38-year-old Detroit native of Ugandan descent, etched her name in the annals of travel history. She recently accomplished the remarkable feat of becoming the first Black woman to visit all 195 countries in the world, shattering long-held stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of explorers.
“People look at a photo of me in Bali and they say, ‘That’s cool, I want to go to Bali,’” she said. “But everyone needs to ask themselves, ‘What is your why? Why do you want to do what it is you want to do?’ I hope people would be more reflective than reactive.”
A Journey Fueled by Curiosity and Determination
Nabongo’s odyssey began in 2017 when she decided to embark on a quest to visit every country by her 35th birthday. At the time, she had already explored 60 nations, having caught the travel bug from her parents at a young age. However, her journey was far from a mere whimsical adventure; it was a testament to her unwavering curiosity and determination.
“Curiosity—that’s what’s always inspired me. I have a strong desire to see the differences and similarities in how people live everywhere in the world, even at home in the United States.”
Challenging Stereotypes and Embracing Diversity
Throughout her travels, Nabongo encountered a diverse array of cultures, customs, and perspectives. She embraced these differences wholeheartedly, using her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity in the realm of travel.
“When we talk about diversity, people mostly think about racial diversity, but it’s also about abilities, age, and body type. There are so many different types of diversity, and everybody should be seen.”
To fund her ambitious endeavor, Nabongo employed a variety of strategies. She utilized her social media influence, partnering with hotels and brands in exchange for promotion.
Additionally, she established crowdfunding campaigns and relied on her savings and credit card rewards to finance her globetrotting adventures.
Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing New Perspectives
While her journey was not without its challenges, Nabongo remained undeterred. She encountered racism and discrimination in some countries, yet these experiences only strengthened her resolve to promote understanding and break down barriers.
“The discrimination that I faced in South Africa was ridiculous. Not only from white South Africans, which many would expect but also from black South Africans,” she said. “Senegal, it’s amazing. You don’t see them privileging white people over Africans. They treat everyone the same. Same in Ghana.”
A Legacy of Inspiration and Empowerment
Nabongo’s remarkable achievement has not gone unnoticed. With over 248,000 Instagram followers, she has become a beacon of inspiration for travelers worldwide, particularly women and people of color.
Her story challenges conventional notions of who can be an explorer and encourages others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
