Meet the Founder: Baylee Waterman Shapiro

I’ve always believed that the most meaningful travel doesn’t just take you somewhere new — it brings you back to yourself.

Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, I was lucky enough to see pieces of the world early on — summer road trips across the U.S., childhood adventures in Canada and the Bahamas, even studying abroad in Israel and Guatemala. But it wasn’t until much later, during a life-changing trip to South Africa in 2022, that travel truly transformed me. I had just lost my mother to cancer, and I was following in her footsteps on a service trip she had loved. What I found there was more than healing. I found a calling. And unexpectedly, I also found love.

That journey led me to move across the world, marry my South African husband, and start a new chapter in Durban — one filled with growth, challenge, and nonstop adventure. Over the past two years, travel has been my constant. Whether required (hello, 90-day visa runs!) or intentional, each trip deepened my passion and reminded me why I love this work: it’s never just about the destination.

Before launching Ubuntu & Beyond, I built a career in sales, operations, nonprofit storytelling, and content creation — helping others tell powerful, purpose-driven stories and bring meaningful ideas to life. Now, I get to do that through travel: designing experiences that reflect your interests, celebrate your journey, and spark something new in you.

If you mention a trip idea, chances are I’ll have a full itinerary in your inbox within the hour. I’m passionate about travel, food, culture, and helping others experience the world — even if it feels out of reach. And I’d be honored to help you plan your next great adventure.