Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Angel Chung Cutno
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Angel Chung Cutno, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about her journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Angel shares her personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on her, and why she encourages others to get involved. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I ended up joining Outdoor Afro because I had just enrolled in another program in the city, to become a certified master naturalist, and I saw in someone's bio in the cohort that she was involved in outdoor Afro. And I looked it up immediately and realized that this was something I wanted to be a part of because I already love being outdoors and doing a lot of outdoor activities, camping, climbing, hiking, all of that, biking. And to be able to do this and hold space with other black folks is exactly up my alley. So I became an outdoor Afro so that I could share outdoors experiences with other black people.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
Last summer, we went camping, and we really didn't have to leave that far from New Orleans to be able to do it. But it was about an hour drive, and just going that far makes it feel like a completely different setting that you're in. And we were able to be in a place where we had a beach and we had a hiking trail, and we also just had a really beautiful food setup. And I wouldn't call it glamping, but we had a great time being outdoors. And we were also able to teach other people skills of how to be outdoors and how to set up a tent and how to forage and identify plants.
And so having that memory of knowing that we are sharing knowledge and going back to the proverb of each-one-teach-one is really exciting. And that's why I love Outdoor Afro is to be able to see that spark in people when they learn something new about the outdoors, and it gives them a greater sense of confidence and willingness to even participate in outdoor activities.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
To anyone else that's thinking about applying, just do it. I mean, if you already love the outdoors, if you're already doing activities, why not just have a platform so that you can invite other people to join activities with you? And that's basically how I do it. I mean, all the activities that I host, I would end up doing on my own anyway, but I get to invite other black people into the space. And as soon as I tell them, I host outdoor meetups for black people, they get really excited.
And so it's a really easy sell because people are excited about trying new things. And if they are nervous about it, knowing that there's gonna be a community of other people that look like them makes them more eager and willing to be able to try new things in a space that they know will be safe.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
Since I've been a leader of Outdoor Afro, I have gained new friendships and ways to connect with people that I might not have otherwise met. And so I go to other events and I talk about outdoor Afro there, and I invite people to meet ups. And so it just creates a way for me to be able to, create a community and have company on some of these activities that I would always do. So I love being able to expand the network of people, the community of people, and the horizons of the people that come out to the events.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Celebrating Black Nature Conservationists Throughout History
Throughout history, many cultures have embraced the importance of living in balance with nature, recognizing it as essential for life itself. Despite systemic barriers, Black environmentalists have made profound and lasting contributions to sustainability and conservation.
From pioneering figures like George Washington Carver to present-day trailblazers like Rue Mapp, Black leaders have shaped and enriched the nature conservation movement in countless ways. This Black History Month, we’re celebrating the achievements of four remarkable Black conservationists whose work continues to inspire and guide us in our mission to change the narrative of who can recreate the outdoors, and re-strengthen Black connections to land, water, and wildlife.
George Washington Carver (1864-1943)
Last year, we celebrated internationally recognized inventor, educator, and botanist George Washington Carver during Black History Month 2024.
Carver developed more than 300 commercial, industrial, and food products between the late 19th and early 20th centuries using the peanut. He originated cooking oils, beverages, paper, soaps, cosmetics, dyes, paints/stains, and even medicines, earning him the nickname “The Peanut Man.”
Carver also released 44 nature bulletins that reported cultivation findings for farmers, recipes for housewives, and science information for teachers. Many of the items he created are still used in nature today – by Outdoor Afro’s staff, team of volunteer leaders, and community participants across the United States.
Read more about the agricultural contributions of George Washington Carver on our Black History Month 2024 page.
MaVynee “The Beach Lady” Betsch (1935-2005)
Meet MaVynee Betsch, a true force of nature and a champion for environmental preservation.
The great-granddaughter of Florida’s first Black millionaire, A.L. Lewis, MaVynee traded a promising career as an opera singer and poured her inheritance into environmental causes, using her voice—both literally and figuratively—to advocate for American Beach on Amelia Island, Florida, a haven for Black Americans during the segregation era.
Her connection to American Beach ran as far back as her childhood; it was established by her father during the Jim Crow era as a safe, welcoming oasis for Black families to gather, relax, and enjoy the healing power and beauty of nature. So when environmental threats and property development endangered the area, MaVynee took action.
MaVynee Betsch later became known as “The Beach Lady” for dedicating her life to protecting American Beach. She even led tours for school field trips, during which she shared the beach’s history and inspired a new generation to value its significance. Thanks to her efforts, parts of American Beach are now protected as a historic site, preserving its legacy for generations to come.
Learn more about outdoor spaces across the country that have long been safer havens for Black people to find joy in nature in our Black Oases article, made in collaboration with REI.
Wangari Maathai, The Tree Mother of Africa (1940–2011)
Born in Kenya, Dr. Wangari Maathai was a visionary leader who believed that the power of people—and trees—could transform the world.
In 1977, Dr. Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, an organization that has since planted over 50 million trees, helping to restore the environment and empowering Kenyan women through conservation. She also made strides in government, serving as Kenya’s Assistant Minister for Environment, Natural Resources, and Wildlife, and was elected to Parliament with an incredible 98% of the vote.
Her impact reached global recognition in 2004 when she became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her groundbreaking work in sustainable development, democracy, and peace. Dr. Maathai’s legacy reminds us how one person’s commitment to the land can spark a movement that changes generations.
Across the country, our Volunteer Leaders share well known, little-known, and unknown stories of Black relationships with land, water, and wildlife—stories that, like Dr. Maathai’s, inspire leadership, conservation, and a long-lasting love for nature. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership Program, and consider donating to support our yearly volunteer leader training and ensure that our volunteers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely lead fun, intergenerational outdoor adventures that bring people together.
Rue Mapp (1971- )
Raised on a ranch in Northern California, Rue Mapp grew up immersed in the beauty of the outdoors. As she got older, she noticed how unique her childhood experiences of fishing, hiking, and exploring nature were compared to other Black Americans. That realization sparked the idea for Outdoor Afro.
In 2009, Rue launched a blog to detail her experiences in nature in the hopes of connecting Black Americans to the outdoors. Today, Rue Mapp is the Founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro. What started as a passion project has grown from a kitchen table blog into a national not-for-profit that encourages Black connections and leadership in the outdoors.
These are just a few of many stories to remind us that Black leadership in nature is deeply rooted in our history. From the pioneering agricultural work of George Washington Carver to the relentless environmental advocacy of MaVynee Betsch and Wangari Maathai, Black changemakers have long shaped the landscapes we know, love, and enjoy today.
At Outdoor Afro, we honor this legacy by continuing to foster Black connections and leadership in nature, guiding communities to explore, learn, and take action in the outdoors. The outdoors is a place for everyone to connect with nature, our shared history, and our community.
Outdoor Afro Welcomes 10 New Board Members to Advance Black Leadership in Nature
Media Contact: Lydia Sullivan, Outdoor Afro, Chief Operating Officer, [email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Outdoor Afro Welcomes 10 New Board Members to Advance Black Leadership in Nature
OAKLAND, Calif. (January 2025) — Outdoor Afro, the nation’s leading organization where Black people and nature meet, is proud to welcome a cohort of esteemed board members who bring a broad range of expertise, passion, and leadership to its mission. After a highly competitive and collaborative search led by Potrero Group, a national leadership consulting firm, Outdoor Afro is thrilled to announce the addition of ten new board members, expanding its already dynamic board to a total of 19 members who collectively embody the organization’s commitment to amplifying Black joy and connection in the outdoors:
- Ariana Miller, Director, African American Alliance of Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) CEOs
- Benje Williams, Cofounder, Executive Director, Outlandish
- Clifton E. Sorrell Jr, Architecture Department Faculty Instructor, Laney College
- Dan Kihanya, Director of Path Ahead Ventures, REI
- Jil Littlejohn Bostick, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility & Inclusion, Winnebago Industries
- Kasim Carter, Retail Sales Manager, REI
- Kristine Stratton, President and CEO, National Recreation and Park Association
- Lena Irish, Manager, U.S. Support Model, Habitat for Humanity International, Inc.
- Lulu Gephart, Vice President, External Affairs, The Wilderness Society
- Marie President, Regional Med Director/Physician, Dignity Medical Group
“These new board members represent a remarkable blend of skills, experiences, and a deep commitment to advancing Outdoor Afro’s vision,” said Shane Douglas, Outdoor Afro Board Member. “Their collective expertise will guide us as we continue to grow and amplify our impact nationwide.”
The newly appointed board members represent leaders in community development, financial management, nonprofit governance, strategy, healthcare, legal affairs, and outdoor recreation industries. Each individual shares a deep passion for Outdoor Afro’s mission of celebrating and inspiring Black connections and leadership in nature. Collectively, they bring extensive experience in strategic planning, fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement, demonstrating a shared commitment to advancing access in outdoor spaces.
Outdoor Afro continues to scale its impact through its strategic initiatives, including doubling the size of the volunteer-led network, deepening community partnerships, deploying digital tools, and overall fostering Black joy and connection through outdoor education and recreation. The new board members will be pivotal in guiding the organization’s ambitious goals, including financial sustainability, engagement, and programmatic accessibility.
“This is an exciting and transformative time for Outdoor Afro,” said Mike Brune, Board Vice Chair. “We look forward to the contributions of our new board members as we advance a world where everyone can find joy, community, and connection in nature.”
Potrero Group, a leadership consulting firm specializing in board and executive searches, played an integral role in identifying and recruiting the ten exceptional candidates. “These individuals stood out for their strategic insight, leadership expertise, and shared commitment to Outdoor Afro’s mission,” said Cleveland Justis, CEO & Principal at Potrero Group.
“We are honored to welcome these dynamic individuals to our board,” said Rue Mapp, Founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro. “Their unique perspectives and professional acumen will help us strengthen our programs, expand our reach, and create lasting opportunities for Black communities to connect with nature.”
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization reconnecting Black people to nature through recreation, conservation, and education. Our programs inspire leadership and celebrate Black joy in the outdoors, building stronger connections to land, water, and wildlife. Learn more at outdoorafro.org.
ABOUT POTRERO GROUP: Potrero Group is a leadership consulting firm helping changemakers thrive. We provide strategic planning, executive search, and board search services to leaders across sectors who are shaping a better future. Potrero Group invigorates organizations with new perspectives and strategies to ensure our clients stay effective, relevant, and resilient over time. For more information visit potrerogroup.com.
The Black Paddle Expedition
Every year, Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leaders from across the country come together to embark on incredible journeys where they engage in fellowship, explore connections to Black history, and celebrate Black joy in nature. In previous years, leaders have organized summits of Mt. Whitney and Mt. Kilimanjaro, Blackpacking through national forests, statewide campouts, ski trips, and more!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HG78YKZDeYs
In September 2021, fifteen of those leaders from across the nation joined each other in Hermann, MO to paddle over 100 miles down the Missouri and into the Mississippi River. Fifth-year St. Louis, MO network Leader and Expedition River Captain Anthony Beasley recounted his experiences of celebrating Black Joy down by the riverside.
“Chaya Harris, the Outdoor Afro National Program Director, saw that I had participated in the Stream Teams United Paddle MO fundraiser and how much I enjoyed it. Considering the substantial Black history of the river, this would be a great opportunity to celebrate and commemorate folks like York, Mary Meachum, and enslaved peoples who used this path on the Underground Railroad.”
The Missouri and Mississippi Rivers are teeming with Black history: from the initial American survey to its role in the Underground Railroad to how these trade routes helped Black Meccas thrive, these rivers carry our stories.
Defeated by General Toussaint L'Ouverture in Haiti, Napoleon pivoted away from his goal of re-establishing a French colonial empire in North America to focus on the impending war with the United Kingdom in 1800. Within this space was an opportunity for then, President Thomas Jefferson to double the size of the fledgling United States of America and push out competing French and Spanish interests. In 1803, Congress ratified the Louisiana Purchase, and the next year President Jefferson tasked Meriweather Lewis and William Clark with surveying the newly acquired territory.
“Initially, I was hesitant,” says Beasley about the paddle. “I had only participated in the Stream Teams trip; I didn't organize the event. It was just a 25-mile float. We didn’t camp every night along the river. We were shuttled back and forth to our boats at the end of the day.”
This expedition was going to be a little different. Leaders were going to set up camp at the end of each day on the river and travel four times as far. “I didn’t think I could lead a group 100 miles down the Missouri, but I knew that my Outdoor Afro community had my back. Chaya helped me scout the area, research Black History on the Missouri, and make a plan for a successful paddle.”
William Clark felt similar trepidation but would need to build his own support. In preparing for the survey, he assembled a “Corps of Volunteers for the Northwest Discovery” and forced an enslaved man, York, to serve in it.
“As an enslaved man, York was considered less than human, so not much was recorded about him other than what they [Lewis and Clark] thought to write in their journals,” says Beasley. “He was the only unpaid [initial] member of the expedition but was pivotal to its success.”
As an enslaved man, York was treated poorly by members of the Corps, who would pick fights with and use him to scout ahead the most dangerous areas. Most of the Indigenous people and immigrants they encountered had never seen a person with Black skin. As they traveled up the Missouri, word spread about the expedition and the “extraordinary” York. The Nez Perce had designs to kill the Corps, but upon seeing York backed off from fear of his retaliation. Because the expedition needed to trade and barter with different tribes along the River, York was presented to them as a novelty and to gain trust.
At over 2,300 miles, the Missouri River is the longest river in North America and is 300 feet across at its widest. This would be Beasley’s first time being on a major river that size. “I’ve been on a few float trips but on smaller rivers. I had never been on a major river like that before, and, I’ll be honest with you, I was terrified.” Thankfully, Anthony had the love and support his team to help him overcome any reservations. For leaders, Outdoor Afro is where they create bonds, build leadership, and find family. “This was my first time paddling with 15 Black folks. When we were out there, just to look back and see all that brown on the river, it was breathtaking.”
Only recently has York been able to receive the recognition he’s deserved as an integral part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The journey was treacherous and not at all rewarding. Despite him being one of the keystones to the western expansion of the United States, York returned to Washington, DC in 1806 and remained Clark’s slave, ultimately being sold out to a farm in Louisville, KY and becoming lost to history.
Anthony and the BlackPaddle crew used their time on the river to celebrate and give honor to people like York, Mary Meachum, and more who carved out spaces where we can feel free in Nature.
“I think about York traveling the opposite way on this river on the journey out west. It just gives me a sense of ownership on this river. I belong here.”
We’ve been here and will always be here, celebrating Black Joy and Black Leadership in Nature.
From Savory to Sweet: Outdoor Afro’s Favorite Camping Foods
Fall can make for excellent camping experiences all across the country. Up north, you can set up camp surrounded by the changing colors of deciduous trees, and, in the south, it’s finally cool enough to sleep in a tent. Monsoon season is over in the west, and, in the east, your risk of encountering ticks is greatly reduced. No matter where you live, one of the things key to a successful trip is making a camp menu that fuels your group and gets you excited about starting up that cooking fire. Ready to plan a weekend in the woods? Check out camping food recipes from several current and former volunteer Outdoor Afro leaders.
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Some camp chefs love to build on their repertoire of camp cooking by mixing it up a bit with a challenge. Antonio’s Dutch Oven Campfire Stew recipe is perfect for car or RV camping. You can prepare some things at home or pack a cutting board with you to chop up the fresh veggies at your campsite.
Leader: Antonio Simmons
Network: Washington, DC
Dutch Oven Campfire Stew
- 1/4 lb. shaved ribeye (substitute mushrooms for a vegetarian option)
- 3/4-1 lb. boneless short rib cut in bite-size pieces (substitute beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1 chopped red onion
- 2 diced garlic cloves
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 1 chopped yellow and red pepper
- 1 chopped medium-sized zucchini, yellow squash
- 1 cup of baby carrots
- 1/2 lb. of halved brussel sprouts
- 1 stalk of chopped celery
- 1/4 teaspoon of cracked pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of sage, basil, curry, oregano, paprika, and salt of your choice
- 1 teaspoon of Complete Seasoning and Oregano
- 1 cup of half-cooked rice (you can add more if you would like)
- 1 26 oz. can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of drained chickpeas
- 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil
Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to get your 8-quart Dutch oven ready.
- Place Dutch oven over coals or flames to get it hot.
- Sauté shaved ribeye, onions, garlic, peppers, and seasonings.
- Add short rib, and cook until pieces start to turn brown.
- Add remaining ingredients, and cook covered for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Imagine a hot bowl of this stew waiting for you after exploring the trails! Cooking with Dutch ovens can add a rustic feel to your adventures as well as help you scale recipes for larger groups. Check out this next delicious crowd pleaser.
Former Leader: Wandi Stew
Network: Atlanta, GA
Dutch Oven Campfire Lasagna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Makes: 4 servings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups pasta sauce (a 24 or 25 ounce jar is perfect)
- 12 oz. FRESH lasagna noodles divided into 4 sets (thawed if frozen)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or a blend of Italian-style cheeses
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Instructions
PREHEAT: If cooking over a campfire, get your coals ready. You'll need 25 total. If cooking at home, preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
ASSEMBLE THE LASAGNA: Start by coating the bottom of a 10" Dutch oven with the olive oil to help prevent the bottom layer from sticking. Add 1/2 cup pasta sauce and spread evenly over the bottom of the Dutch oven. Use the first set of noodles to create the base of the lasagna. Layer 1/2 cup sauce, 1 cup baby spinach, and 1/3 cup cheese. Repeat (one set noodles, 1/2 cup sauce, 1 cup baby spinach, 1/3 cup cheese) two more times. For the final layer, use the last set of noodles, 1/2 cup sauce, and 1/2 cup cheese. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top.
BAKE: Use 8 coals to create a bed to set your Dutch oven on. Place the Dutch oven on top of the coals. Cover the oven with the lid, and place the remaining 17 coals on top of the lid. If cooking at home, simply cover your Dutch oven, and stick it in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes until the noodles are tender and cooked through and the cheese has melted.
SERVE: Take the Dutch oven off the heat. Carefully remove the lid and set aside. Cut the lasagna into 4 wedges, plate, and enjoy!
Looking for something a bit lighter for backcountry adventures? Check out this recipe for backpackers. You’ll need a saucepan and heavy-duty tin foil for this easy camp food recipe.
Leader: China Walker
Network: Washington, DC
Caramel Apple Cake
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter cut into pieces
- 1 large Granny Smith apple
- 1 cup of mixed vanilla cake batter or plain pancake batter
Cook butter and sugar on low, until a caramel is made. Then, add slices of Granny Smith apples on top of the caramel. Next, add vanilla cake batter (or plain pancake batter left over from breakfast). The next trick is to try to cook on low and not on directly on fire, as this will scorch the bottom of the cake. (We put the pan on embers, and then surrounded the pan and lid with the sticks/embers. )
Here are must haves from our volunteer Outdoor Afro Area leaders for easy backpacking meals:
-Minute rice + pouch of salmon
-Ramen + fresh carrots and broccoli + Field Roast vegan sausage + parsley
-Frozen cooked chicken + pesto + frozen bell peppers and onions (defrosts while you hike so you can just heat and eat)
If you are looking for ways to make sure you stay fueled in the backcountry, check out this recipe from our friends at REI for jerky. No dehydrator required!
Homemade Jerky
- 2.5 lbs thinly-sliced meat (lean meat works best)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- ½ tbsp. onion powder
- ½ tbsp. black pepper
- ½ tbsp. liquid smoke
- 1 tbsp. red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp. honey
- ½ cups water
- 1 cup soy sauce
- Toothpicks
In a large bowl, combine garlic, jalapeño pepper, onion powder, black pepper, liquid smoke, red pepper flakes, honey, water, and soy sauce
Add meat to marinade, and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the oven to 175 degrees.
Line the bottom shelf of the oven with baking sheets and aluminum foil.
Place marinated meat in the oven to dry for 2-4 hours. (Lay directly on the oven shelf or hang from the shelf using toothpicks.)
Part of planning a camp menu is doing your best to make sure that nothing goes to waste. When a camper brought an extra dozen donuts to breakfast, volunteer Outdoor Afro leader Beky Branagan knew exactly what to do with the leftovers. Introducing the easiest camp dessert ever made: the Bull’s Eye! If you aren’t counting calories, this is a fun way to get rid of all of that leftover holiday candy.
Former Leader: Beky Branagan
Network: Raleigh-Durham, NC
Bull’s Eye
Take 1 donut, place a marshmallow in the hole, and add as much or as little candy, nuts, chocolate, or bananas or other types of fruit as you’d like!
Wrap with foil & bake!
No matter what is on the menu for your next camping trip, we encourage you to challenge yourself! You can explore with different tools like Dutch ovens or backpacking camp stoves as well as with recipes that stretch your abilities a bit.
