I’ve thought long and hard about the direction I want to take The Pin the Map Project next. I’ve known for some time that—while I love blogging—many of the deeper stories on this website that I’m passionate about, deserve more than a 500 word blog post. I don’t write for the perks, for the free travel or even the validation of social media likes or comments; I write for that lone agave farmer in Oaxaca who crossed the border 5 times to raise enough money to buy his land and craft mezcal. I write for the chef in Colombia who is trying to define the country’s food scene by chasing local ingredients. I write for the volunteers in Rome who have taken it upon themselves to protect, feed and play with the stray cats who live in the ancient ruins.
I write for the artisan co-op of Nicaraguan women who are redefining what it means to be female in their communities. I write for every person I’ve met during my travels whose story has fallen under the radar, whose endeavors are unseen and whose voices are often unheard. I want to bring these stories to life in a way that blogging sometimes fails to do and so I’ve decided to launch Pin the Map magazine.
How you can support female artisans…
Because of my love of The Little Market, for every donation made on our GoFundMe page you’ll receive a bracelet to support female artisans worldwide! The Little Market is a charming online shop that works with artisan groups from around the world. In an effort to empower female artisans, help them rise above poverty and preserve their traditional craft, The Little Market created a marketplace to connect these women with customers. Sourcing all of the artisan’s handmade products ethically, The Little Market supports talented women from Bolivia, Nepal, Kenya, India, Senegal and more. Because Pin the Map magazine is ultimately inspired by the locals I’ve met and their incredible–yet–unheard stories, I wanted to give back to that community.
So, you want a weekend in NYC?
I don’t blame you! New York is a whirlwind city that throws glitter in your eyes from the moment your plane touches the tarmac at either LaGuardia or JFK. On our GoFundMe page, I am offering many amazing reward levels in exchange for supporting the next two issues of Pin the Map magazine! Rewards include a feature in an upcoming issue (perfect for aspiring travel writers) and a full weekend in NYC!
The weekend in New York will include a round trip flight (U.S. only) and a fabulous itinerary to give you a true taste of New York City. Your itinerary will feature a complimentary dinner, brunch (a New Yorker tradition!) and a round of cocktails at a local speakeasy arranged by yours truly. In addition to the flight and meals, you’ll also receive insider tips on where to eat, drink and play so that you can experience NYC like a true New Yorker.
Check out the Pin the Map magazine GoFund me page now to snag these amazing rewards AND a New York getaway!
