Black Hikers Explore –Sacramento is a community based nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access to outdoor recreation, wellness, and community connection for minority and underrepresented communities in the Greater Sacramento area. 

OUR MISSION

 Our mission is to create safe, inclusive spaces where individuals and families can experience the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of nature through hiking, wellness programming, and community outreach.

My journey into wellness work is deeply personal. I was born in Liberia and grew up in Ivory Coast as a refugee before migrating to the United States as a teenager. Having experienced displacement, trauma, and the emotional weight of starting over, I learned early on how deeply mental, emotional, and physical health are connected.

Most of my life, survival came before self-care. It wasn’t until I discovered the healing power of nature and movement that I began to truly process stress, anxiety, and emotional burnout. Hiking became more than exercise—it became therapy, prayer, clarity, and restoration. Being outdoors gave me space to breathe, heal, and reconnect with myself in ways traditional systems never offered.

I started Black Hikers Explore–Sacramento after recognizing the lack of representation and culturally safe spaces for Black people in outdoor recreation. While hiking offers powerful physical, mental, and emotional health benefits, many Black and underrepresented individuals often feel excluded, unsafe, or unwelcome in these spaces. I wanted to create a community where people could explore the outdoors without fear or judgment, while building confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging.

My passion is rooted in equity, wellness, and community impact. I am driven by the belief that access to nature and outdoor wellness should be inclusive, empowering, and available to everyone, regardless of background or experience level.

 I enjoy outdoors. I enjoy nature. What better way to enjoy both of them than hiking?
From Boy Scouts to 101st Airborne to Sacramento in my middle yrs (57), hiking and outdoors has been a staple in my life, especially in staying healthy & whole. As part of this group, networking, learning, laughing, and building relationships (backed with a spiritual foundation in Christ) is my goal & I hope to achieve it with your help, positivity, & commitment to growing this group as well as yourself.

I look forward to connecting with you on and off the trail. 1luv. 

 I love easy hikes, being outdoors, and just about anything with a fun theme! Some of my favorite moments are the simple ones, walking a trail, laughing with friends, sharing resources, or introducing people who end up becoming part of each other's lives. I truly believe community is one of God's greatest gifts.
I simply love supporting others, and making sure people feel seen, included, and informed. As part of the team, I'm excited to help keep our community connected.