Founded in 2019 by archeologist-turned-entrepreneur Anita Moreau, the Black Travel Summit (BTS) is dedicated to supporting, empowering, and creating opportunities within the Black travel community. Over the past few years, the Black Travel Summit has built an ecosystem centered around their annual multi-day conference and shorter in-person and digital events throughout the year which focus on the impact, future, and rich tapestry of Black culture in travel. The Black Travel Summit is based in the United States but has built a global audience and is planning its first international summit in 2025. Since its inception, the Black Travel Summit has hosted three mini summits, over 45 virtual events, and two global summits, attracting more than 200 leaders and over 10,000 attendees.
The Black Travel Summit Origin Story:
Anita Moreau is the visionary founder and CEO of Black Travel Summit. Born to a Seychellois mother and Haitian father, Anita’s early life in London was steeped in diverse cultural experiences and sparked a passion for travel. Her journey into the world of travel and cultural heritage began at a young age, driven by her love for exploring new places and understanding different cultures. Anita’s professional path as a museum curator and archaeologist further solidified her dedication to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage.
In 2005, Anita visited Spain and encountered overt racism in the form of a blatant graffiti message. This experience ignited a fire within her to address and challenge racial discrimination through education and awareness. Her extensive travels, spanning over 35 countries, allowed her to immerse herself in the rich tapestry of the global Black diaspora and inspired her to create more opportunities for Black travelers and entrepreneurs worldwide.
Anita draws her inspiration from several influential figures, including Michele Bondanelli of Hyatt, Martinique Lewis of Black Travel Alliance, and her husband, Frantzy Moreau, with their support and mentorship playing an instrumental role in her entrepreneurial journey.
How the Black Travel Summit is Changing the World:
The Black Travel Summit was born from Anita’s desire to champion and accelerate opportunities for Black travelers, businesses, career professionals, and creators. By producing innovative and engaging events rooted in the vibrant fabric of Black travel culture, the Summit provides a platform for connection, education, and growth. BTS focuses on creating an inclusive ecosystem where every voice is heard and every journey is acknowledged.
BTS’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in the Summit’s programming, which tackles industry pain points while delivering a meaningful experience for all attendees. The goal is to encourage Black travelers to step out of their comfort zones safely and affordably, and to provide Black entrepreneurs and professionals with the tools and opportunities to scale their businesses and careers.Â
Through its events and initiatives, the BTS educates attendees on the history, culture, and experiences of Black communities globally which creates a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Black diaspora, encouraging more inclusive and culturally aware travel practices. By promoting the stories and contributions of Black travelers and entrepreneurs, the BTS is reshaping narratives and challenging stereotypes within the travel industry.
How the Black Travel Summit is Making an Impact:
By leveraging tourism to promote cultural understanding and economic growth, the BTS is making strides toward a more inclusive and equitable travel industry. The Summit’s events not only celebrate Black culture but also empower attendees to share their stories, thus contributing to a broader narrative of diversity and inclusion in travel. This creates ripple effects that influence perceptions and inspire actions within the larger travel community. Some of the ways they do this is through:
- Educational Initiatives: Through workshops, seminars, and cultural events, the Black Travel Summit educates attendees about the rich history and diverse cultures of Black communities around the world.
- Business Opportunities: By providing a platform for Black entrepreneurs and professionals, the Summit creates opportunities for business growth and career advancement.
- Cultural Appreciation: The BTS celebrates the contributions of Black travelers and entrepreneurs, fostering a greater appreciation for the Black diaspora within the travel industry.
- Community Building: By bringing together a diverse group of travelers and professionals, the Summit builds a supportive community that encourages collaboration and mutual growth.
How You Can Connect with the Black Travel Summit:
You can support Black Travel Summit by attending their in-person and virtual events, sharing their mission to celebrate Black culture in travel with your network, and following them on social media.