Tiffany Heard is from Los Angeles, California and is a proud graduate of Howard University, where she obtained a Masters of Social Work. She has currently traveled the world to over 20 countries and gives back selflessly by volunteering abroad. Ms. Heard is a content creator who discusses and documents her solo vacations on the travel blog. Tiffany is the author of Hues of Africa: Journey Between the Lines & Hues of Africa. She was inspired to create these books because coloring calms her soul and she aspires to globe-trot throughout the continent of Africa as a traveling Social Worker.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspires you to travel?
I organize and host group trips to locations such as Africa, Mexico & Colombia. I am a travel blogger, YouTuber, and podcaster. My inspirations for traveling include: seeking new adventures, the opportunity to learn about something or someone, natural beauty, and the opportunity to taste new food.

2. How has travel impacted your life and how has it changed you?
Travel has impacted me most positively. It has increased my self-confidence, allows me to learn and embrace other cultures, and my taste buds and palettes have been introduced to delicious cuisines. I have also met amazing people along the way. I have traveled internationally to volunteer and give back to others in countries like St. Thomas Virgin Islands to help rebuild homes (with All Hands and Hearts), Spain to teach English, and elementary Schools in Ghana. My solo adventures have now led to me taking people back to various countries to introduce them to the world in a group setting.

3. Where was your most recent travel experience and what did it teach you?

1. My most recent travel experience was to a Nigerian/ Trinidadian wedding in Houston Texas. It taught the following: 
2. Research how far you away from the actual city & rent a car if necessary 
3. Talk to everyone and make a connection. It made for a great weekend with late nights and fun times. 
4. Post on Social Media to see who is in the local area, so you can connect for dinner and great conversations.
5. Black love exist and combining cultures is beautiful.

4. What has been your most favorite travel experience and why?
My favorite travel experience was my trip to Ghana, West Africa during Summer Study Abroad. It was my first 6 week international experience and passport stamp. We were able to see various parts of the country and I have made life-long friends. This trip has led me to hosting yearly group trips to Ghana.

5. Do you have any tips or advice for people who want to travel more?
I highly recommend everyone take a solo trip! I know you are afraid and nervous but it’s ok! Acknowledge the feeling but book that vacation and have the time of your life; Open a savings travel account! Put aside a certain amount every month, so when the trip comes it won’t feel expensive and you can enjoy it without wondering about trip expenses.
If you work a traditional 9-5 make sure you use all of your PTO for a staycation, vacation or just to relax & reset. Utilize holidays such as Thanksgiving to extend your trips.
Share your itinerary and location with a trusted family or friend. Check-in at least 1x a day with someone so they know that you are always ok.

5. What are the must-have items on your packing list?
Passport, Phone, Charger, Cash, at least one debit/ credit card, mosquito repellent, ink pen, iPad, book, and a change of clothes, underwear & toothbrush in a carry-on bag.

6. Why do you think is it important for black women to travel?
It is important for us to travel to show representation and who we really are. I think other people have an image about Black American and us showing up breaks those stereotypes.
As black women we always have to be strong for everyone including ourselves, traveling allows you to relax and be care free. Whatever task or whomever can wait until you get back home.

7. How did attending an HBCU impact your life?
I attended Howard University as a graduate student. While most grad students are focused on going to school, working full time jobs or may have families, I decided that I would become very involved on campus. I served as Student Council President for the School of Social Work, participated in alternative spring break to Detroit & South Africa, and was a part of the Homecoming Gospel show.
My experience as a student has allowed me to further my goals in my business as an entrepreneur and world traveler.

8. Can you tell us about your product/services for HBCUs and their affiliates?
Hues of HBCUs is a book that explores History, various colleges, sororities and fraternities known as the Divine 9 & the HBCU experience. The 200 page book combines therapeutic benefits of coloring with engaging activities to make learning fun and interactive.

9. In your own words, what is the legacy of HBCUS?
HBCU legacy is multifaceted: It encompasses civil rights, social justice, cultural preservation, community building, academic excellence, global impact, leadership, role models, diversity & inclusion, making them an integral part of American history and contemporary society.

10. Where can people follow your travel journeys?

My travel journeys can be followed on my FB, IG, TikTok, and YouTube pages.

FB: Tiffany Heard

IG: @sweettffys / @hues_of_africa

TikTok @sweettifys

Youtube: Where in the Heard is Tiffany

Podcast (Buzzsprout & Spotify): International Interludes: Love & Adventure Abroad

Here is my travel website:
https://www.huesofafrica.com