Travel Photographer and Author Jessica Nabongo Achieves Milestone: First Black Woman to Visit Every Nation
Jessica Nabongo, a first generation American raised by Ugandan parents in Detroit, embarked on a remarkable journey in 2009 when she started her travel storytelling career with the blog 'The Catch Me If You Can'. This journey took a new turn in 2017, when she decided to visit every one of the 195 UN-recognized countries, aiming to be the first Black woman to achieve this feat.
On October 6, 2019, Nabongo concluded her journey in the Seychelles, marking the end of her historic expedition. Her travel experiences are not confined to her blog alone. She has expanded her storytelling to fine-art photography and a new YouTube channel, partnering with a videographer to help with filming and editing.
Nabongo's YouTube channel is not limited to travel stories. It aims to encourage creatives from all walks of life to share their stories in any medium. The channel, influenced by her followers' requests and her desire to push boundaries with her storytelling, serves as a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.
Nabongo's Instagram content combines images and stories, teaching people about countries and their histories. Her approach to life and storytelling emphasizes the importance of not being too precious or perfectionistic, allowing for the freedom to pursue multiple interests at once. She treats life like an experiment and doesn't stick to a routine to avoid boredom.
One of her most significant takeaways from her travels is the advice: 'Just start.' This mantra has guided her through her journey, from her initial blog to her cookbook, 'Catch Me in the Kitchen'. This book, which will publish late next year, focuses on food and recipes from around the world.
In the cookbook, Nabongo shares insights into the origins of different foods and ingredients, helping her become even more fluent in a destination's history. One interesting discovery she made was that chili peppers originated in the Americas, which has helped her understand the impact of global trade on food and culture.
Nabongo's focus on doing work she loves has kept her going and helped her stay authentic. Her cookbook is a new medium for her storytelling, as she had initially declined the idea but found potential in exploring global stories through food.
In addition to being a successful travel storyteller and cookbook author, Nabongo is also a National Geographic author. Her second book for the prestigious publication is on the way. While the title and specific details are yet to be revealed, it is certain that Nabongo's unique perspective and storytelling skills will make it an engaging read.
As for who will represent Nabongo in a later National Geographic book, the search results are currently inconclusive. One thing is certain, however - Jessica Nabongo's journey of travel, storytelling, and food is far from over.
