September 22, 2024

"Travelin Light" Briona Lamback x Treasure Sounds

New Month, New Playlist. Meet Briona Lamback, author and award winning writer. Within her incredible journey as a writer, Briona has defied the odds and carved out a place for herself in the competitive world of journalism. From navigating the uncertainty of a nomadic life to overcoming barriers in the media industry, her story is one of perseverance, passion, and triumph.

Her work has not only been acknowledged by prestigious organizations but has also graced the pages of top publications such as Popsugar Conde Nast Traveler, BBC Travel, and Fodoors Travel. This recognition is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the unique perspective she brings to her storytelling. Her writing captures the essence of diverse cultures and cuisines, offering readers a window into the world's most vibrant and compelling narratives.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable writer, whose dedication to her craft and unyielding spirit have not only fulfilled her own dreams but also enriched the world of journalism. Continue reading the whole interview.

Your name and the work you do?

My name is Briona Lamback, and I'm an award-winning travel journalist, writer, and entrepreneur. I own a travel company, Buoyant, which hosts group trips, meet-ups, and events worldwide to connect the diaspora with cool people, places, and Black-owned businesses.

What do you spend most of your Sunday doing?

I love a slow Sunday, so my favorite ones are spent reading a good book, enjoying a glass of wine, and, in the warmer months, outside on a long walk or kayaking.

A morning run, gym session or yoga?

Yoga. I enjoy low-impact resorptive and therapeutic workouts, so I recently fell in love with hot yoga. It's the perfect mix of meditation and cardio.

Tell us about something in your life you're most proud of?

I'm most proud of the alignment I've worked hard to establish between my personal and professional life. I started a food blog in 2016, which ultimately turned into a travel blog after my experience studying abroad in London. I've always loved writing, and once I fell in love with traveling, I searched for ways to combine the two, and now I'm a multi-award-winning travel journalist. In elementary school, I was part of a Black history debate club, and today, I write professionally about Black history and culture. My travel company hosts trips to destinations rich in Black culture, such as Brazil and Ghana. Everything in my career aligns with my interests and values, so it feels well-balanced, which is a real blessing.

What would you tell your 18 year old self?

To keep going. The end of my high school experience had some challenging moments; at the time, it often felt like the end of the world. Now, I'm so grateful for all of the experiences, people, and places that have shaped me, and I would tell my 18-year-old self to keep going because there's so much more to experience in this life.

Dreamed holiday?

My current dream holiday is in South Africa, specifically Johannesburg. I've wanted to visit for a few years to learn more about South African history and vibe with the local culture. I want to eat good food, dance to amapiano, experience a sunset and hike in Cape Town.

How do you find a sense of calm in the midst of chaos?

I'm still learning to find calm amid chaos, but one of my go-to habits is journaling. I've kept a journal since childhood and continue journaling for peace of mind in adulthood. It's a valuable tool I'll always use when I need calm.

If you could be anything else in life what would you be?

If I could be anything else, I'd be a visual artist like a painter, photographer, or collage artist. I admire their craft and love art, but I have always been more of a wordsmith.

What's something the world could care a little more about?

There are so many things the world should care more about. I wish everyone were more curious about other people, places, and customs. Curiosity keeps us interested, willing, and empathic towards other people. In general, though, I wish the world cared more about the conditions and liberation of Black people globally.

What's Your ideal Friday Night ritual?

For years, I spent Friday nights in my room with a good candle, wine, and some Jhene Aiko, journaling and writing poetry. I'd like to return to that—it's still my ideal Friday Night ritual.

If you had 10 minutes to pack to your dream Destination…
Where are you going and what are you packing?

I've never packed so quickly, but anything is possible for a dream destination! I'd choose to go to South Africa in December, and I'm bringing:

The Turi Mesh dress for a nice dinner and drinks night in the city.

The Pado crop top and maxi skirt because green is my favorite color and I love a good matching set, especially on holiday.