We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rashnide Aguy a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Rashnide, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Taking a risk can be terrifying, but it can also lead to life-changing growth. One of the biggest risks I ever took was deciding to study abroad on my own. Growing up, my family traveled often—my dad was constantly traveling from Haiti to the states, and my mom always planned our summer road trips. My travels always revolved around family and as I once I became a teen, I was going on more church youth trips, so I never experienced traveling alone.

When I entered college, I learned about study abroad programs. As much as I loved traveling, I had never been out of the country without my parents or a family member. I was 19 at the time, I was in a relationship with someone who told me he couldn’t handle long-distance. He said if I chose to study abroad, our relationship would be over. Looking back, I laugh at how much power I gave that conversation. Today, I would never let a relationship hold me back from experiencing new things. But back then, I shielded away from the opportunity. My mom, who was big on family travel, also wasn’t very encouraging about me going abroad alone.

Fast forward to when I turned 21. That relationship ended, and I found myself feeling stagnant and lost. I was going through the motions but felt disconnected from my life. Even though we were still on speaking terms, part of me clung to the hope that we might reconcile. But deep down, I knew he wasn’t the one—he didn’t support my dreams.

That’s when I decided to take a risk: I would study abroad. I didn’t want outside opinions to influence me, so I completed the application entirely on my own. I prayed about it, found a summer job to help pay for it, and when I received my acceptance letter, I told my parents I was moving to London.

Although it was only for a semester, it felt monumental because it was the first major decision I made without seeking permission from my parents. Instead of asking, I told my parents about my choice. To my surprise, they were supportive once I explained more about the program.

That risk became the best decision of my life. It inspired my goal of visiting 30 countries by 30. I learned so much about myself—I was already independent, but studying abroad pushed me even further. I had to put myself out there, make new friends, and advocate for myself. I was a young woman in a foreign country, healing from a breakup and rediscovering who I was.

That experience also strengthened my faith. I relied on God more than ever before. I spoke to Him often and watched Him move in my life in ways I never expected.

Taking that risk wasn’t easy, but it opened the door to a life full of adventure, growth, and self-discovery.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Who am I? That’s always a nerve-wracking question! My name is Rashnide, and I’m the creator of Voyages with Rash. Originally from Haiti, I’m a young woman exploring the world on my journey to visit 30 countries by 30—I’m currently at country number 18! I’m most proud of my determination, confidence, and organizational skills. With a talent for crafting detailed travel itineraries, I offer services through my site to help others enjoy stress-free trips. Many people love to travel but don’t enjoy the planning process—that’s where I come in, making their travel experience seamless and memorable.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

One of my core missions as I explore God’s beautiful creation is to travel with purpose. I don’t just want to be a tourist—I want to give back to every country I visit. Volunteering has become a key part of my journey, whether it’s supporting an orphanage or helping at a community center. As a former middle school teacher, children hold a special place in my heart. I also contribute by donating to local churches I attend during my travels.

For me, travel is about more than capturing beautiful photos or videos—it’s about meaningful connection. While tourism can bring vital income to communities, it can also have harmful effects. That’s why my mission is to engage and support local communities and make a positive impact wherever I go.

I know I’m still learning, and it’s okay to make mistakes. What truly matters is staying mindful, listening, and treating every person I meet with kindness and respect.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

My audience is still growing, and sharing my content hasn’t always been easy. At first, I was nervous, worried about what people might think or if I’d come across as annoying. Even now, I still get nervous with every post. But I have to say, my online community on Instagram is incredible. I don’t have a huge following, and honestly, that’s not my goal. What matters most is the genuine engagement, the DMs, the questions, and the connections I’ve built.

One example that sticks with me is a TikTok video I made nearly two years ago about my Ghana visa process. Even today, people still reach out with questions. It reminds me that consistency matters, so my advice is simple: Keep posting. Yes, it can feel nerve-wracking, but it will eventually payoff.

I’m still finding my true audience, and that’s okay. I won’t shy away from the journey. I’ve learned to treasure the people who regularly like, comment, and share my posts, they hold a special place in my heart. Another valuable lesson: I would say is don’t get upset if friends or family aren’t your biggest supporters. I used to feel frustrated, but I’ve realized they don’t owe me that—and that’s okay. The right audience will find you, and the people who truly enjoy your content will support you in their own way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.voyageswithrash.com/
• Instagram: voyageswithrash
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Voyageswithrash
• Other: Tiktok: voyageswithrash

Image Credits

Image credits to @Chery’sLens