About Jessica Nabongo

Jessica Nabongo is a global citizen, master storyteller, and travel expert, who is the first black woman to have traveled to every country in the world. Named one of the 50 Most Notable People in Travel, by Travel and Leisure, Jessica uses her platforms to educate and inspire others to experience the world around them and build a global community, with an emphasis on bringing untold stories to the world. Her first book, The Catch Me If You Can: One Woman’s Journey to Every Country in the World, published by National Geographic, was an instant bestseller.

A first generation American, Jessica was born and raised in Detroit by Ugandan parents. She attended St. John’s University in New York where she earned a degree in English Literature, later completing a graduate degree at the London School of Economics. She is also the founder of the lifestyle brand The Catch. When she’s not on a plane, she is home tending to her plants in Detroit and LA.

In The Press

“For Nabongo, the well-posed pictures aren’t intended to evoke envy, rather to change the narrative around travel: her snapshots and the accompanying stories have shown nuanced versions of places many travellers shy away from.”

— Lonely Planet, 2020

“Nabongo uses her platform to highlight the damaging impact of plastic. She also makes her travel look real, not staged.”

— Mashable, 2019

“While she does not identify as an activist, sometimes her mere presence is enough to make a difference or cause a person to see things differently. This is a common sentiment echoed by many women of color: Simply being who you are is a statement.”

— CNN, 2019

“Jessica’s journey is inspiring many black travelers to get out there and see the world unapologetically all while dismantling the obstacles placed upon us.”

— Matador Network, 2019

“To be a good neighbor you have to let go of the burden of fear.”

— TEDxDetroit, 2019

Work with Jessica

To enquire about brand partnerships, press or booking Jessica for speaking engagements please click the button below!