Traveling can be so much more enriching when, instead of destination-hopping just as a tourist, you navigate your surroundings as a connector.
But what does it mean to be a connector while on the go and abroad? Jessica L. Dupree, aka “The Chief Brand Connector,” spoke with Travel Noire about how she does it and why it’s important.
The Los Angeles-based PR maven has established herself as an inter-diasporic link between Black and African communities through her work and travels. Her industry contributions include serving as a strategist for the BRDS app, being the North American Head of PR for The Headies Awards since 2022, and working as a media envoy to the Office of the President of Uganda. After working in the United States and across the African continent, the longtime PR executive has become well-versed in intentionally fostering diasporic exchange both at home and abroad.
Left to right: Lisa Osinloye, Charles Xavier, Michele Stueven, Loretta Devine, Jessica Dupree, Isaac Kigozi, Noah Omobolanie, Paul Osinloye, and Glenn Marshall. Courtesy of Arnold Turner of A Turner Archives
Dupree shared that for her, a major element of being a connector while traveling is being particularly mindful of where you’re going and who you should be interacting with. In terms of what she does differently from an ordinary tourist, the PR exec said she avoids planned itineraries so she can more organically engage with the right people.
“When I think of being a powerful connector – whether domestically or abroad – what comes to mind is intention, authenticity, vulnerability, and the ability to see the big picture. It’s all about doing so while uniting people to the opportunities and experiences that will bring that big picture to life,” said Dupree.
“When it’s time to network while traveling, I always try to seize the opportunity to move with boldness, passion, and intention to incite curiosity and interest on behalf of my clients,” she continued, adding, “The enthusiasm I convey makes anyone want to engage!”
“Unlike most tourists who use itineraries with day-to-day agendas, the only time I adhere to a strict itinerary is when I’m on a media tour or working on a client’s campaign. Otherwise, my travel experience has a more spontaneous schedule,” the PR maven explained. “While I do research and identify places and attractions I plan to visit, I rarely have a daily, hourly schedule that I adhere to. Meeting people in unconventional ways allows me to connect and extend more time, space, and energy to who I feel will align strategically with my clients and their brands.”
As a Black American traveler who often visits different African countries, Dupree said being a connector across the diaspora “holds a very special meaning” for her.
“There is so much to learn throughout the diaspora. I believe that many Black people haven’t been able to understand and experience their original roots, culture, and way of life. As a Black American traveler who frequents [countries in Africa], the experience always feels like a ‘reunion’ – especially when I meet new people and learn about the ancient traditions and wisdom passed down from ‘the elders’ about love and life. I also enjoy witnessing the spirit of celebration that people in the diaspora exhibit during different occasions,” said Dupree.
What To Do When You Arrive Somewhere New
If your goal is to make meaningful connections with locals, Dupree suggests remaining true to yourself. Another major tip is to remain open to serving in the connector role without operating from a transactional point of view. Also, to travel as a connector, it’s critical that you engage with the locals outside of your destination’s touristy areas.
“To make worthwhile connections with locals while you travel, the first thing you should aim to do is to always be your authentic self,” Dupree shared. “I believe that the true law of attraction is defined as drawing in people who you need, and who need you, as opposed to the commonly held belief that you attract who you are. The phenomenon only happens when your motives in meeting people are pure, and you operate from a desire to create win-win situations for everyone involved rather than from a place of selfishness. Also, be sure to venture outside of tourist attraction areas and go into the areas where locals dine, socialize, shop, and engage.”
How To Operate As A Connector While Traveling
Dupree also shared her tips for turning casual interactions while traveling into professional opportunities, friendships, and long-term connections. She noted the importance of individually being able to bring something to the table. According to her, the qualities of a good connector include being “a person of value” with “specialized knowledge” who can solve problems and answer questions. She also noted that, as a connector, you should “operate from a place of love.” As for what she personally does, Dupree said that when she’s abroad, she’s observant and takes thoughtful notes about the people she connects with.
“When your motives are pure, everything that you desire will happen naturally. The only thing that we don’t have control over, and shouldn’t try to manipulate, is timing. Strive to be the type of person someone wants to connect with. A wise man once said, ‘Nice is for you, but kindness is for them.’ So if you treat everyone with kindness, you will build and create lifelong connections,” she stated.
How To Maintain New Relationships After The Trip Is Over
Once you’re back home, Dupree said it’s important to maintain thoughtful connections by showing personalized interest when following up with people. Additionally, lean into the value of being there for your connections through their ups and their downs. And not to be underestimated, Dupree highlighted that she uses her entire network to organize follow-up encounters and connect her circle.
“When I meet people, I take time to understand what motivates them and what they believe to be their life’s purpose and work,” she said. “If you look in my cell phone, you’ll see that under a person’s name, in the notes section, I’ve included what their favorite type of food is and what their favorite type of flower is, even if I’m overseas. It’s also very important to note that as a publicist, I want to be just as present during good times as well as bad times.”
“The way to maintain new client relationships after a trip is genuine gestures such as handwritten letters, check-in phone calls, and sending flowers. You want to be able to convey your care and appreciation to them as much as possible,” she emphasized. “In addition, I work with sponsors and brand partners to meet with clientele for private dinners. These interactions not only create new experiences, but also demonstrate true alignment and compatibility with those in your circle.”
*This interview has been condensed and edited for length and clarity.
