In this episode of The RISE Traveler, we sit down with Montreal-based entrepreneur Laëtitia Damonsing to explore how her global experiences shaped her identity, worldview, and business. From volunteering in Brazilian communities during the World Cup to working in international diplomacy in Paris and Australia, Laëtitia shares how travel transformed her perspective on privilege, resilience, and representation as a woman of color.

Her journey led her to launch DoDo Bazaar, a circular fashion brand redefining waste and sustainability. We also dive into her reflections on immigration, diversity in study abroad, and the urgent need for human-centered policies in today’s divided world.

This is a conversation about courage, creativity, and carving new paths—proof that travel can spark both personal transformation and social change.

https://www.instagram.com/dodobazaar/?hl=en

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this episode of RISE Traveler, host Amy Hager sits down with Janna “Jaz” Zinzi founder of WanderWomxn Travels, to explore how travel can go beyond sightseeing to support local communities, small businesses, and marginalized groups. Jaz shares her journey from New York to New Orleans, her passion for community-based tourism, and how today’s U.S. policies—from immigration to DEI rollbacks—are reshaping how people experience travel. Together, they discuss the power of local action, cultural preservation, and face-to-face connection in building a more inclusive and resilient travel industry.

https://wanderwomxntravels.com/

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute

In this powerful Season 6 premiere, host Amy Hager sits down with Roni Weiss, Executive Director of Travel Unity, to explore the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and global travel. From his personal journey as a neurodivergent traveler to addressing how political climates impact tourism, Roni brings insight, honesty, and heart to the conversation.

Highlights from this great conversation:

• How Roni’s early experiences with ADD shaped his career and travel mindset
  
  
• The founding of Travel Unity and the need for systemic change in the travel industry
  
  
• Why privilege and identity matter when discussing travel access and safety
  
  
• The real-world effects of U.S. political policies on international tourism
  
  
• How DEI language is being quietly erased from some organizations
  
  
• Why knowing your organization’s “why” is essential in times of uncertainty
  
  
• What grassroots advocacy can look like in the tourism space
  
  
• Tips for travel professionals and students to promote inclusive travel experiences

Travel Unity Website: https://travelunity.org/

Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risetravelinstitute/featured

Instagram: instagram.com/risetravelinstitute