<sponsored> In 2013 I decided to commit to the outdoors and step outside of my comfort zone. At the age of 20 I had only camped with my family in Mexico and camped on beaches during a trip abroad. That summer I spent my time living at an environmental camp in St. John, leading hikes and snorkel expeditions with kids. This was only the beginning, as I returned to the States I began my work as trip leader with the recreation program at my university. Before leaving to St. John, USVI, I spent 7 days in the Pisgah National Forest training with the new cohort of trip leaders. This was my first time backpacking and rock climbing outside. I was really nervous and eager to learn new skills. While I sat around during our trip briefing I couldn’t help but notice I was the only person of color and one of two women in the group. It was really hard to connect with my peers who grew up outside with their families or through organizations. It was really hard to feel safe and supported while facing microaggressions. Over the last five years of my career as an outdoor educator, the feeling of isolation hasn’t gone away but I have found ways to create my own spaces. Looking back, I know that going to my trip leader training was the best choice I have made with my life. It opened up a whole new world, it taught immense technical skills,and it opened up new career paths. I do know that stepping outside is always a lesson in my comfort zone and learning zone. I have to find ways to protect myself from co-instructors, fellow outdoors people, and most importantly protect my students/participants. I have dedicated my life to creating access for my communities and with that has come great responsibilities of passing on my lessons learned and becoming a better leader. The outdoors is my home and I have vowed to make this space more inclusive and equitable for the generations to come.
