⏰Issue #11 - January 2026

The Rise of the Black Luxury Traveler

By Gai A. Spann

For generations, Black travelers have shaped global travel culture—often without being fully acknowledged. Today, however, the numbers are impossible to ignore: Black travelers contribute more than $129 billion in annual travel spend, with a growing appetite for premium, immersive, and culturally rich experiences.

My own research reinforces this shift, revealing that Black travel professionals play a central role in guiding these decisions, curating journeys grounded in safety, heritage, community, and elevated living.

This evolution has ushered in a traveler who is not simply accessing luxury spaces but redefining them. The Black Luxury Traveler seeks authenticity wrapped in elegance—meaningful cultural connection paired with world-class service. Increasingly, they are drawn to experiences where their presence is not an exception, but the expectation.

Young, Gifted & Black™ Entrepreneurial Awards Marks 21 Years of Honoring Black Excellence with 2026 Honoree Announcement

New York, NY — The Young, Gifted & Black™ Entrepreneurial Awards, Inc. (YGB) has officially announced its 2026 honorees, continuing a powerful legacy of recognizing Black excellence, leadership, and innovation across multiple industries. The announcement marks a major milestone for the organization as it celebrates its 21st year of honoring trailblazing entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and community leaders during its signature annual fundraising gala .

Founded in 2006, the Young, Gifted & Black™ Entrepreneurial Awards program was created to spotlight everyday individuals who serve as positive role models while inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in business, service, and leadership. Over two decades later, YGB has grown into a nationally respected nonprofit institution, recognized for uplifting voices that are often underrepresented while reinforcing the power of entrepreneurship and community impact.