Greenway Speaker Series Event Hosts Rue Mapp
The Anne Springs Close Greenway will host Rue Mapp at its upcoming Greenway Speaker Series event. Mapp is an awarded and inspirational leader, speaker, public lands champion, outdoor gear designer, CEO and published author.
Mapp is the founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro, where Black people and nature meet. She established the for-profit enterprise Outdoor Afro, Inc. in 2021 and subsequently launched a 22-piece hike collection with outdoor retailer REI Co-op. Mapp’s first national book titled “Nature Swagger: Stories and Visions of Black Joy in the Outdoors” was released in November and is available for purchase at the Greenway’s visitor center.
“’Nature Swagger’ is not just about ‘peak’ experiences – the tallest mountain climbed or the most strenuous trek – instead, it’s very much about how nature can be a joyous part of anyone’s life.”
Rue Mapp in an interview with Blue Ridge Outdoor magazine
The Greenway’s Speaker Series aims to further its mission of connecting people to nature through recreational and educational activities while fostering a passion for environmental conservation and protection of natural resources. The Greenway carefully selects speakers showing dedication to outdoor recreation, conservation or in Mapp’s case, both.
Before or after the event, attendees may purchase dinner and beverages at the on-site restaurant and enjoy the fresh air and wide-open spaces of the Greenway. Live music by Cameron Moore will follow the event.
Bring a chair, but please leave glass containers and alcoholic beverages at home. Tickets must be purchased in advance and cost $23 per person. Members receive a 20% discount on tickets, as well as the regular member benefits as outlined on the website.