We were lucky to catch up with Tyler Janeé Ward recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tyler Janeé, thanks for joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

In my life, my parents did several things right that have had a significant impact on my career and personal development. One key aspect was their dedication to enrolling me in various programs and extracurricular activities while I was growing up.

From an early age, my parents recognized the importance of giving me exposure to different fields and interests. They signed me up for after-school programs, weekend activities, science clubs, and more. This proactive approach allowed me to explore a wide range of hobbies, skills, and interests.

One of the most significant benefits of their actions was the network of connections I developed throughout my childhood and teenage years. By participating in these programs, I had the opportunity to meet professionals from various industries and creative pathways. These encounters broadened my horizons and exposed me to career possibilities I might not have considered otherwise.

As I got older, I found myself with a diverse and extensive network of contacts all over Los Angeles. These connections proved invaluable as I entered the job market and pursued my career. They provided guidance, mentorship, and even job opportunities that I might not have had access to if it weren’t for the programs my parents had enrolled me in.

Overall, my parents’ decision to immerse me in a multitude of programs and activities during my formative years had a profound impact on my life. It not only helped me discover my interests and passions but also provided me with a supportive community and a valuable network that continues to benefit me in my career and personal life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My journey into this exciting industry began with a deep passion for exploring different cultures and creating connections with people from all over the world. I’ve always been fascinated by the power of travel and storytelling to bridge gaps and foster understanding between diverse communities. This passion led me to pursue a career in the travel and creative industries.

I wear many hats in my professional life. As the founder of Study Elsewhere, I provide virtual hosting services and study abroad consulting. My goal is to empower young professionals of color who are interested in pursuing creative pathways around the world. I assist them in navigating the complex world of study abroad programs, ensuring they have the resources and guidance they need to make their dreams a reality.

One thing that sets me apart is my proactive approach to pursuing my ideas. I’m proud of my ability to recognize opportunities and take action swiftly. When I have an idea, I don’t hesitate; I jump on it. This has allowed me to create and launch projects like Travel Pop Culture and Turbulence Podcast, which are both platforms dedicated to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives in the travel and creative industries.

Through Travel Pop Culture, I explore the intersection of travel and pop culture, highlighting how travel influences and is influenced by the world of entertainment, art, and media. Turbulence Podcast, on the other hand, provides a platform for in-depth conversations with industry leaders, creatives, and professionals who share their insights and experiences in the travel world.

What I’m most proud of is my ability to inspire and empower others to pursue their passions, particularly young professionals of color. I’ve been fortunate to build a supportive community through the Black Travel Alliance, where we advocate for diversity and inclusion within the travel industry. Our work is driven by a commitment to change the narrative and provide opportunities for underrepresented voices in travel.

In essence, I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is grounded in a deep love for travel, storytelling, and advocacy. I aim to be a source of inspiration, information, and empowerment for those who share my passion for exploring the world and making a positive impact through creative endeavors. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive and vibrant global community.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One defining moment that showcased my resilience was when I had to pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic as the traditional model of studying abroad came to a halt. This unexpected challenge forced me to think creatively and adapt to the changing landscape.

Before the pandemic, Study Elsewhere primarily focused on facilitating traditional study abroad programs for young professionals of color. However, when travel restrictions and safety concerns became widespread, it became clear that our usual approach wouldn’t work.

Instead of succumbing to the challenges, I gathered my team and brainstormed a new way forward. We decided to pivot and create virtual programming and city-based experiences for youth. This shift allowed us to continue providing valuable educational and cultural opportunities while adhering to safety guidelines.

It wasn’t an easy transition. We had to restructure our programs, develop new curricula, and find innovative ways to engage participants virtually. We also worked closely with local partners to ensure that our city-based experiences were safe and compliant with health regulations.

Despite the uncertainties and obstacles, we pressed forward with determination and resilience. The pivot not only allowed us to survive during a challenging time but also opened up new avenues for us to connect with a wider audience. We found that virtual programming and city-based experiences could reach individuals who might not have been able to participate in traditional study abroad programs due to various constraints.

Through this experience, I learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from setbacks; it’s about adapting, evolving, and finding opportunities within adversity. It reinforced my belief in the importance of flexibility and innovation in pursuing my mission of empowering young professionals of color to explore creative pathways around the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: tylerjanee.com
• Instagram: @tylerjanee
• Linkedin: Tyler Janeé Ward
• Youtube: Elsewhere with Tyler Janeé