Leroy Adams

Leroy Adams is a cultural storyteller and global communicator whose perspective is shaped by rich, cross-cultural experiences. From being told in Ethiopia that he didn’t “look” like a Black American because he didn’t wear sagging pants to a moment in China where a first-grader thought he was “made of chocolate,” Leroy has seen firsthand how race, identity, and stereotypes are interpreted across cultures. These moments inspired his passion for storytelling as a tool to reclaim and reshape narratives, particularly about Black identity on a global stage.

His work with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia deepened his understanding of the challenges and opportunities in development aid, while his role advising the U.S. State Department on Diaspora relations taught him that shared skin color alone doesn’t create solidarity—it requires intentional effort and open-minded dialogue. These experiences provided him with a nuanced perspective on global politics, citizen diplomacy, and the intersections of culture and identity.

Today, Leroy is the founder of Culture Travels Media, a travel media and entertainment brand with a bold vision: to become the go-to source for Black travel news, storytelling, and entertainment. Think Essence or BET meets Condé Nast Traveler—a platform where the richness of Black culture and world-class travel content intersect. Through original travel shows, live events, and engaging content, Culture Travels Media connects audiences to new destinations while celebrating Black culture on a global scale.

Leroy’s mission is to bridge cultures and redefine narratives through the power of storytelling. By amplifying diverse voices and fostering cross-cultural connections, he is helping to inspire meaningful allyships and ensure that Black voices are celebrated across the globe. His dedication to travel and cultural exchange makes him a standout leader in the evolving conversation on identity, solidarity, and the transformative power of exploration.

When Leroy is not working with his team to build a media company, you can find him traveling (which he does even while working), reading about the history of Black travel, or resting while binging movies.