“The outdoors allows me to celebrate my identity without boundaries, creating moments of pure happiness and liberation.”
We extend a hand to author, adventurer, and soon-to-be close compadre, Noami Grevemberg. She talks us through her upbringing in Trinidad, advocating for diversity, inclusivity in outdoor spaces and embracing her true self.
Hey Noami, let’s kick things off with a Passenger classic: What’s your favourite way to find meaningful Escapism?
“While overlanding is a big part of my life, my favorite escape is the rainforest. Growing up in the rainforests of Trinidad, being in this environment feels like going back to my roots. The dense canopy, the sounds of wildlife, and the earthy smells all bring me back to my childhood. For me, the rainforest is a place that reconnects me with my past and recharges my spirit.”
“When I moved to the USA and found myself in cities, I felt cut off from that connection. The learning curve to get back outside was steep, but I was determined.”
Let’s go back to the beginning. What’s been the main pull to getting you outside? Have you always felt it?
“Growing up in a small fishing village in Trinidad, my life was all about the outdoors. My family were hunters and fishers, and nature was a constant companion. When I moved to the USA and found myself in cities, I felt cut off from that connection. The learning curve to get back outside was steep, but I was determined. I started hiking and camping, and eventually took the leap to live on the road full-time. Nature has profoundly shaped my worldview, reminding me of the simplicity and beauty of life.”
“Being at multiple intersections has its pros and cons as an outdoorist. However, I firmly believe that nature is for everyone and that nature doesn't discriminate.”
As a queer person, are there any challenges you’ve felt crop up whilst on the roam?
“I haven't faced direct challenges in the outdoors specifically related to my queerness, but navigating the world as a Black person has its own set of challenges. Being at multiple intersections has its pros and cons as an outdoorist. However, I firmly believe that nature is for everyone and that nature doesn't discriminate. It's a space where I can be my true self and find peace and belonging.”
How do you find queer joy in the outdoors? Do you feel a renewed sense of freedom out beyond the pines?
“Queer joy in the outdoors, for me, comes from embracing my true self in spaces where I feel most free and connected. It's in the laughter shared with friends around a campfire, the solitude and reflection during a solo hike, and the simple act of being authentically me in nature. The outdoors allows me to celebrate my identity without boundaries, creating moments of pure happiness and liberation.”
On that, are there any queer groups or influencers you would like to give a shout-out to that are championing queer joy in the outdoors?
“Absolutely! Pattiegonia and Blair Imani are two of my favorite queer influencers who inspire me daily with their dedication to inclusivity and representation in the outdoors. Additionally, there are countless wonderful queer folks in the road travel community who champion queer joy and authenticity, making the outdoors a more welcoming and vibrant space for everyone.”
After clocking up a good few miles on the road, have you felt a shift in the accessibility and inclusivity of outdoor spaces?
“Over the past decade, there has been a significant shift towards greater inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces. More people are advocating for diversity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or ability, feels welcome and represented in nature. This push for inclusivity is transforming the outdoor community, making it a richer and more vibrant space for all.
“It's not just about being present in these spaces but also feeling a genuine sense of belonging.”
“We're seeing more diverse faces in outdoor media, hearing more varied stories, and witnessing a broader range of experiences being shared. It's not just about being present in these spaces but also feeling a genuine sense of belonging. I’m proud to be a part of this movement, working alongside many passionate individuals and organizations to break down barriers and create an environment where everyone can thrive in the outdoors.”
What do you think people and brands could be doing to make the outdoors a more inclusive space?
“People and brands can play a crucial role in making the outdoors more inclusive by amplifying diverse voices and stories, providing resources and support to underrepresented communities, and actively challenging stereotypes. Brands should invest in partnerships with diverse influencers, create inclusive marketing campaigns, and ensure their gear and products are accessible to all. It's also essential to support initiatives that promote diversity in outdoor education and advocacy, fostering a culture where everyone feels they belong in nature.”
Noami's top Passenger picks...
Keep up with Noami’s (@irietoaurora) adventures via IG and look out for our collab post dropping soon…
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