This past March 2025, in Tampa, Florida, the Voyaj mission once again opened hearts and minds as a magical evening unfolded.
We started as 20 strangers from different cultures– American, Moroccan, French, Jordanian, Canadian, and Colombian. As the evening of sharing tea, stories, and our humanity progressed, our connections deepened, and our perspectives expanded.
With Voyaj sparks to create meaningful exchange, and stories from our guest, Commander and astronaut Chris Hadfield, we discovered a commonality in all of our lives.
Chris spoke about looking down at Earth from space, (the Overview Effect) and his soul-shifting realization of how small and interconnected we all are. His words evoked the presence of our interconnection for everyone present, and inspired guests to share their personal stories of displacement, resilience, and hope, further expanding our mutual understanding and compassion.
There were joyful tears. There was music, Middle Eastern food, and a collective warmth that comes from being truly seen. As the evening concluded, these 20 strangers embraced as friends for life.
And that’s the magic of Voyaj.
Voyaj Gatherings like this embody the Voyaj mission. It reminds us that when we come together in safe spaces, and intentionally connect with others who are different from ourselves, we unlock the simple, ancient knowledge of our shared humanity and love.
Thank you to everyone who came together to create this Tampa, Voyaj Gathering. And thank you to all of you who will take part in upcoming Voyaj Gatherings.
Sign up HERE to learn about upcoming Gatherings, and Voyaj news.
With love and gratitude,
Yasmine and the Voyaj team
P.S. The Tampa, Voyaj Gathering will be included in the upcoming documentary, “HOPE”, of which Voyaj is honored to take part alongside Jane Goodall.
P.P.S. Join us on this journey of connection: www.voyaj.com/stories
The first Voyaj dinner experience, in Kent, WA on Tuesday, October 29, welcomed new friends who are rebuilding their lives, Chris Sembroski, a citizen astronaut from the Inspiration4 mission, Voyaj founding members, Chef Maya Amadi, Artist Ahmed Ragab, and long-term residents.
It was presented as a collaboration with World Relief Western Washington, Blue Origin’s Club for the Future, and Voyaj. ,and is sponsored by ASA Global Impact Fund.
We’re also honored to partner with LuNARC to send co-created art pieces to space.
#VoyajWithHumanity #ChrisHadfield #VoyajStories #OverviewEffect #RadicalBelonging #HumanConnection #GatherWithHeart #HopeTheDocumentary
To become a Voyaj founding member, co-host an experience, or sponsor a Voyaj dinner experience, please reach out at yasmine@voyaj.com and let’s make meaningful connections together.