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: we want to create memorable experiences while keeping justice in mind through thorough planning and exceptional 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
Diversity & Inclusion
Mother nature doesn’t discriminate; neither do we.
Leadership
Working toward a better tomorrow begins with leading today.
Passion
For people, communities, and nature.
Respect
For each other, money, time, and service.
Growth
If you stop learning, you stop living.
Impact Reports
We’re proud of the work we are able to accomplish and want to share that transparently with our community.
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
Nikky Martin
(she/her)
Event Planner
Prasadini Gross
(she/her)
Project Manager
Public Lands UnEarthed