When I first travelled to East Africa in June of 2021, I did not know what to expect. I only knew the time had come for me to connect with the "African" part of my African American identity. I had to know what was on the other side.
When I arrived, it instantly felt like home. I lived in Atlanta for college, and even that could not prepare me for this. In Africa, I found an entirely new civilization where people look like me, but they may speak a different language and see the world from a different perspective. Even with these glaring differences, the similarities and common mannerisms confirmed any doubt I may have had about where I came from.
Africa is evolving into a beautiful space in my heart, especially East Africa where I have spent the bulk of my time. I have visited at least two weeks in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. I have gotten the most familiar with Uganda, a country full of life, opportunities, and natural beauty. Uganda is such a pure country. The people are as rare as I've seen in my 41 years of living and exploring.
I recommend Uganda for people who want to experience a communal society and desire to learn and unlearn some cultural values about African life.
Kenya boasts some of the most beautiful beach front views and exotic experiences just off the Indian Ocean. If not for the work I love so much in Uganda, I would live along the Kenyan Coast. Kenya's capital city, Nairobi is fast like New York, yet African enough to also feel subtle Houston vibes. I have spent roughly two months in Nairobi since 2021. The place is very international with various nationalities converging on the city which makes it a very diverse African choice from business pace to dining options.
I recommend Kenya for people who want a bit more of a face paced modern vibe in the city or people who want to kick back at the beach life along the coast.
I recently recorded a podcast episode called, "Preparing for your first trip to Africa." In the 30 minute commentary I provide a basic overview of steps needed to be taken to make your voyage a reality. I also give some tips and advice from my personal perspective on traveling international and travel in general, from flights options to negotiating price.
I believe you will enjoy the short talk. The layout of the content is below, as is a link to the recording.
I hope you will visit me here soon.
Just call before you come, so I can be ready for you!
In this LIVE event, you will learn some of the basic steps for making your first international trip. Special interest is paid to those taking their first trip to East Africa.
From securing your passport and visa to tips on choosing your travel route and selecting accommodations on the ground; this commentary is a first person perspective of making the trip to the other side.
Below is a breakdown of the content:
*Audio begins at 1:19
1:19 - 3:30 Intro
3:33 - 5:00 Personal First Trip Story
5:00 - 7:15 Making sure you have a passport to leave your home nation
7:16 - 9:18 Securing your visa to enter your destination
9:19 - 17:00 Mindset: Understanding where you are, and adjusting
(Language barriers, air quality, food and restaurant experiences, negotiating price)
19:05 - 23:18 Choosing the flight route that's best for you
23:40 - 27:05 Defining safety, finding the best accommodations in each city/country
28:00 - 29:35 Transportation on the ground: To drive or not to drive
29:40 - 31:05 Closing - SHIFT Tours as a concierge service
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About SHIFT Enterprise Academy
SHIFT Enterprise Academy is a US based personal development consulting firm with an expanding footprint in East Africa. SHIFT majorly deals as an education technology company with online courses and trainings. Team SHIFT is a private members only group offering education, tourism, and investment opportunities to its members.
About the Founder & Show Host
Ethan Brisby is an African American entrepreneur resettling in East Africa. He is an effective communicator who leads SHIFT trainings. Brisby is a native of Texas where he spent the last ten years working as a real estate broker, affordable housing advocate, and leading local community development initiatives. Ethan is an author and former host of Word on the Street Radio, of which he hosted from 2003 - 2007 before returning to college where he earned a B.S. in Urban Studies from Morehouse College. Brisby is also an alumnus of Texas A&M University where he earned a Master's degree in Land & Property Development. Ethan is a man of many talents always leading with his example.
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Great !
Well said.