Rue founded Outdoor Afro as a social enterprise in 2009.    The now national not-for-profit celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. Headquartered in Oakland, California, Outdoor Afro incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 2015. Today, the staffed organization includes more than 100 trained volunteer leaders, led and designed by Rue to innovate not-for-profit as movements of change.    International cruise line Hurtigruten Expeditions made cruise industry history with the creation of its Black Traveler Advisory Board. Hurtigruten invited Rue to become one of its founding members. Rue took an 18-day Antarctica voyage in February 2022 to help drive change and new opportunities for Black people in the adventure cruise industry, increasing visibility and inclusivity of Black travellers.   When Rue shares stories from the land, people of all walks of life listen. She’s served on national platforms with congresspeople, outdoor professionals, corporate partners, and global leaders.   “Nature Swagger” is Rue’s first book by American publisher Chronicle Books. This project is a beautiful combination of breathtaking photos and compelling stories of Black joy in nature. The book releases to the public Nov. 1, 2022.    New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don’t miss out.    You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Sign up as a Patron -  www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you.      Show Notes Who is Rue and what she does Living in Northern California  Growing up between the city and a ranch Early childhood memories from spending time in nature The importance of hospitality Learning more about her family Having a natural curiosity for the environment  The stories that weren’t being told Sharing a new narrative of the Black experience The origin story of Outdoor Afro in 2009 Asking herself the question - what does she really want to do? Growing through outdoor experiences Being an early adopter of technology  Growing a team of 120 Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leaders  The joy of nature and the joy of being outside The importance of remaining a practitioner  Her love of the water Spending time in Antarctica  The importance of having the right gear Designing a new clothing collaboration with REI REI X Outdoor Afro Wanting to solve problems especially with fit and function Wanting to wear bright colours  2022 and what a year it’s been  Why Outdoor Afro has been a 13 year overnight success story  Writing her book over the past 2 years  Book: Nature Swagger Stories and Visions of Black Joy in the Outdoors  How to connect with Rue on the Socials Her plans/visions for 2023 Thinking about succession planning for Outdoor Afro Final words of advice    Social Media   Website ruemapp.com    Instagram @ruemapp    Facebook @RueMapp    Twitter @RueMapp    Book: Nature Swagger Stories and Visions of Black Joy in the Outdoors.    An exquisite combination of beautiful photography and compelling stories, this book from Outdoor Afro founder, Rue Mapp, celebrates Black joy in nature.    Filled with breathtaking photography, inspiring stories, profiles, and spotlights from Outdoor Afro group members, prominent Black leaders in outdoor spaces, and other organizations, this book inspires Black communities to reclaim their place in the natural world. Interspersed throughout are essays from Mapp on the rich history of Black involvement in the outdoors, activism, and conservation, as well as resources for readers who want to deepen their own connection with the elements. A perfect blend of gorgeous photographs, awe-inspiring stories, and Black history, this collection is the perfect gift for anyone looking to heal in these sacred natural spaces.   https://www.chroniclebooks.com/products/nature-swagger