Breaking Down Barriers: The Adventures of Mario Rigby

In celebration of Black History Month, the Outward Bound Canada Training Academy for Outdoor Professionals hosted a virtual conversation featuring eco-explorer and entrepreneur, Mario Rigby.

During this event, Mario shared his insights on exploration; the impact that travel has had on his life; and his optimism for the outdoor sector as a whole as it relates to cultural diversity.

From industry insights, to building resilience and perseverance through adventure, to being a trailblazer for representation, watch below for a recap of our virtual conversation that you will surely not want to miss!

ABOUT MARIO RIGBY
Mario Rigby was born in the sun-soaked Turks & Caicos Islands and spent his formative years in Germany, before relocating to Toronto, Canada at the age of 16. His passion for pushing boundaries has been evident since childhood, whether it be in athletics, exploration or any other endeavour he sets his sights on.

Mario’s passion for track and field in his youth drove him to strive for something greater. His entrepreneurial spirit and athletic prowess led him to open a business in the fitness industry in Toronto, but he yearned for a more ambitious pursuit. This desire for exploration and connection with the world around him sparked the idea for the Crossing Africa expedition.

In 2015, Mario embarked on a two-year odyssey across Africa, walking and kayaking from Cape Town, South Africa to Cairo, Egypt. Along the way, he connected with communities and shared their stories with the world, aiming to bridge the gap between humanity. His mission was to encourage people to be brave and explore the world.

Mario is a passionate champion of diversity in the outdoors, inspiring people to explore the world sustainably. His captivating tales of personal growth and courage are a reminder of the power of facing our fears and tackling global issues. As he embarks on his next journey, Mario hopes to motivate others to join him in his mission.