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Let's Tell Stories

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Over the past decade

I’ve partnered with top brands and publications to inspire connection, belonging, and an intentional approach to travel.

Now, I’m here to help you do the same.

Travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the stories we carry back with us.

It’s the people who shape our perspective, the way a place can feel like home even when it’s far away, and the connections that remind us how small the world can feel. These experiences take root and become part of who we are.

How We Can Work together

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Travel Writing

From destination guides to feature stories, I bring your experience to life. I’ve written for The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, and more.

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Content Creation

Visuals and copy for social media, blogs, and campaigns that resonate.

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Newsletter Features

With a loyal audience of culturally curious travelers, your brand will land directly in the inboxes of readers who value intentional travel and Black culture.

Who You’ll Reach

An engaged, culturally driven community that’s intentional about how they travel, spend, and connect.

Across Instagram and Substack, my reach is more than 1,000 users who span 43 U.S. states and 19 countries. With an impressive 9% engagement rate, they don’t just watch or read. They respond.

BOOK A PROJECT

What They’re Saying

Testimonials

“Shayla is the rare reporter and writer who looks to balance heart and intellect in her work,”

"The first time I worked with Shayla, it began with a side conversation at a conference. Our chat grew, thanks to her thoughtful development of the story, into a beautiful feature article that remains one of my very favorites I've published at Coastal Living. Shayla is the rare reporter and writer who looks to balance heart and intellect in her work, and I think that's why her pieces have such impact."

Tracey Minkin, Travel Editor Coastal Living

“Her support has helped many of our alumni expand their reach and impact in meaningful, ethical ways.”

“Shayla is an incredible gift to our Trauma of Money faculty. She teaches our students how to access media in ways that not only amplify their thought leadership but also align with their values and voice. Shayla is transparent, clear, and deeply connected in her approach, bringing both practical industry insight and heartfelt guidance. She knows her field inside and out, and her ability to demystify the media landscape empowers our students to show up with confidence, clarity, and integrity.”

Chantel Chapman, CEO and Co-founder, Trauma of Money

“Working with Shayla is such a rewarding experience”

“Her diligent reporting, thoughtful writing, and unique point of view has helped us elevate our storytelling across all platforms of VERANDA. She always asks the right questions and delivers top-notch journalism!”

Steele Marcoux, Editor in Chief, VERANDA

“I’ve always been impressed by Shayla’s thoughtfulness”

“She has the rare ability to turn a kernel of an idea into a full-fledged content piece that serves our larger goals to drive visitation to Durham. She was a great thought partner in refining our approach to help us get to the heart of storytelling.”

Margaret Pentrack, VP of Marketing & Visitor Experience, Discover Durham

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Representation matters

Your team wants to learn from someone who gets it.

I offer workshops and keynote talks on topics like intentional travel, cultural storytelling, and diversity in the travel industry.

are you Ready to collaborate

Subscribe to The Road We Trod

Sign up here to get the best newsletter about all things Black travel, Black history and Black culture straight to your inbox.

Outside of traditional media, I share my unfiltered thoughts on travel as a Black woman (among other hot topics) on my substack newsletter, The Road We Trod. The newsletter is my safe space corner of the internet, and I’d love for you to join me.

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