Origin Story
Unbelievable. When founder, Chevon Powell, was questioned by law enforcement during a solo backpacking trip in Vermont, she was told her reason for being in the area was ‘unbelievable’. This experience, though unfortunate, is not uncommon for many BIPOC recreationalists. Inspired by the desire to have spaces where people of color could connect with nature, Chevon began her own outdoor-focused BIPOC-centered event production company, Golden Bricks Events. In 2018, she launched its signature festival, Refuge Outdoor Festival, to serve as a space where BIPOC could take “refuge” in the majesty of the great outdoors. Since then the company has expanded its offerings and reach, challenging what is ‘believable’ for BIPOC outside.
Mission
Our mission is simple: to create memorable experiences rooted in justice, shaped by thoughtful planning, and strengthened through meaningful partnerships.
Our outdoor-focused experiences for Black, Indigenous, People of Color are designed for emotional & physical safety, accessibility, connection, joy, and belonging. We envision a world where BIPOC outdoor participation is not “unbelievable”, but common. We want to diversify the faces of the outdoors and conservation through our events. With examples like the March on Washington and Woodstock, we’ve seen how events can have a monumental impact in the world. We want to champion that change with our offerings at GBE.
Values
DEI
Mother nature doesn’t discriminate; neither do we.
Respect
For each other, money, time, and service.
Passion
For people, communities, and nature.
Leadership
Working toward a better tomorrow begins with leading today.
Growth
If you stop learning, you stop living.
Goals
Beyond the Goal:
12K+ BIPOC Outside
More Than a Milestone—It’s a Movement.
With over 12,000 BIPOC joining us outside, we’re building spaces where people see themselves reflected, where joy is abundant, and where community thrives. The movement is growing—and you’re part of it. Our original goal: get 10,000 Black, Indigenous, and People of Color outdoors. Not just to hit a number—but to help shift who feels seen, safe, and celebrated outside.
For too long, systemic barriers have made the outdoors feel out of reach for many BIPOC communities. We’re here to change that—and to make diversity in the outdoors the norm, not the exception.
#LETSMEETOUTSIDE
Meet Our Team
Meet the hard-working superstars that make this work possible!
Chevon Powell
(she/her)
Founder/Managing Director
Martin Tran
(he/him)
Festival Director
Vilay Dethluxay
(she/her)
Operations Manager
Chrisha Favors
(she/her)
Director of Engagement & Partnerships
Nikky Martin
(she/her)
Event Planner
Prasadini Gross
(she/her)
Project Manager
Public Lands UnEarthed
Iris Hendricks
(she/her)
Conference Manager