Camp Uwani was founded by two nature lovers, Luis and Joselys, with a simple but powerful mission: to dismantle barriers to equitable outdoor recreation. 

‍

When we first started hiking and camping, we often found ourselves as the only people of color on the trails. Looking for resources, we realized that outdoor media—whether in advertisements, gear promotions, or YouTube videos—rarely reflected the diverse communities we come from. This lack of representation sends a clear message: the outdoors isn’t for us. But we refuse to accept that. 

We created Camp Uwani as a space where people of color can explore nature, feel seen, and know they belong. 

Our mission is rooted in the belief that movement, nature, and community are essential to well-being. The word Uwani, meaning "soul" in Garifuna, represents this connection. We chose this name because nature is deeply restorative—being outside, breathing fresh air, moving, and sharing space with others nourishes both body and spirit. 

Since launching, we’ve led monthly hikes introducing over 200 adults to local trails. 

More than just outdoor excursions, these hikes have become a way to reimagine what the outdoors can be: welcoming, inclusive, and free from judgment. 

‍

Representation matters, and we want our community members to know they belong in outdoor spaces. 

Our merit badge system recognizes achievements, builds skills, and fosters confidence—because everyone deserves the chance to explore, learn, and connect with nature on their own terms.

In response to our post-hike survey asking, “How did this outing impact your perception of hiking?”, one member shared: 

‍

“Being with Black and Brown folks of all ages was welcoming and wonderful, especially since these kinds of hikes and events don’t often have many people from our communities. Meeting people from all over the Bronx and beyond was unexpected and really meaningful. There’s often an assumption that only skinny, fit people hike, but when the experience is slowed down and the focus is on taking in nature rather than just the physical challenge, it becomes so much more accessible for everyone. Also, the badges were a nice touch—not many of us older folks got a chance to do something like this when we were younger.”

- An anonymous response when prompted in a post-hike Camp Uwani survey "How did this outing impact your perception of hiking?"

‍

बाहर की बाधाएं क्या हैं और हम उन्हें कैसे संबोधित करते हैं? 

‍

Camp Uwani, is committed to dismantling the barriers that prevent people from accessing the outdoors, including economic hardships and lack of representation. 

For many, the high costs of gear and transportation can make outdoor activities feel out of reach. To address this, events are either free or low-cost, removing these financial barriers and making the outdoors more accessible to everyone. 

Another significant challenge is the lack of representation in the outdoor industry. Many people feel excluded when they don’t see themselves reflected in marketing, advertisements, or even on the trails. 

By prioritizing inclusiveness, Camp Uwani is challenging systemic inequities prevalent in the outdoor industry.

‍

We challenge this narrative by offering workshops that teach outdoor skills and stewardship practices, empowering new adventurers to feel confident in nature. Their merit badge system celebrates personal growth and milestones, reinforcing that everyone belongs in the outdoors. 

‍

Through inclusive programs, they celebrate the cultural richness of the outdoor community, making recreation more relatable, welcoming, and accessible to all.

By addressing these barriers, we aim to create a space where everyone feels empowered to explore, connect with nature, and build lasting memories.

प्रोग्रामिंग कैसे काम करती है? 

At Camp Uwani, community building is at the heart of our programming. We offer a variety of activities, including hikes, educational workshops, and park cleanups, all designed to create a space where members can connect with others who share similar backgrounds. Our goal is to foster a supportive, inclusive network while also making confident stewards of nature. These experiences are not just about exploring the outdoors—they’re about building relationships and encouraging personal growth, while empowering members to take care of the environment. 

A key part of our programming is the merit badge system. As members participate in hikes and activities, they earn badges that recognize their achievements and milestones. 

‍

These badges represent more than just completing tasks; they symbolize overcoming challenges, learning new skills, and contributing to the collective journey. 

The merit badge system also motivates members to step out of their comfort zones, with the support of their peers. As members collect badges, they reflect on their progress and stay inspired to continue their outdoor journey. This system builds individual confidence while strengthening our community bonds, celebrating successes, and learning together.

‍

टीम से मिलो! 

‍

Luis 

I grew up in the South Bronx, where hiking and camping weren’t on anyone’s radar. Watching movies and TV shows about the outdoors fascinated me, but my family couldn’t afford those experiences. That changed in high school when a leadership group took me on a backpacking trip, providing all the gear—I was hooked. 

But as I got deeper into hiking, I struggled to find people who looked like me in outdoor spaces, and navigating out of NYC to the trails felt overwhelming.

That’s why we started Camp Uwani: to create a welcoming, judgment-free hiking community where beginners, especially people of color, can learn, explore, and connect. A year in, it’s been a huge success, and I’m excited to keep growing this space for everyone who’s ever felt like the outdoors wasn’t for them. 

‍

Joselys

I grew up in The Bronx, NY, a true city kid with no exposure to the outdoors. Anywhere with insects, dirt, or anything remotely resembling wilderness was an automatic No for me. That perception shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic when my best friend and I, looking for a way to move our bodies and socialize safely, decided to try something completely outside our comfort zone—hiking. Our inexperience showed immediately, we mistakenly approached a blocked entrance, got lost multiple times, and had no idea what trail blazes were. Yet, despite the missteps, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and grounding by the end of that hike.

As I spent more time on the trails, I couldn’t help but notice how often my friends and I were the only people of color around.

This lack of representation was impossible to ignore, so we created Camp Uwani. The outdoors can feel overwhelming at first, and once you’ve learned the ropes, it’s easy to forget where you started. Camp Uwani allows me to bridge that gap, fostering an inclusive and welcoming space for others who, like me, never saw themselves in the outdoors but are ready to reclaim that narrative.

‍