BOLD Journey - Meet Lisa Gomes
Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lisa Gomes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lisa, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I found my purpose through the organic evolution of Lesbifriends Travel. It all started years ago with casual gatherings in the living room of my one-bedroom apartment—a space where queer people could connect in a meaningful way. What began as a simple get-together gradually grew into a community of like-minded individuals who wanted to maintain that connection.
When I decided to formalize these bimonthly events and annual trips into a business, my goal was to become a trusted resource within the LGBT+ community. I made sure to take the right steps to legitimize Lesbifriends, so people could have confidence in the events and travel experiences we provided. I’ve always envisioned Lesbifriends as a safe space for people to connect, and I know firsthand how challenging it can be to re-enter the social world and attend public gatherings. By hosting events in homes rather than club-like venues, I aim to create a sense of warmth and welcome that might be missing in other settings.
Lesbifriends has grown to offer a variety of experiences that cater to the needs and desires of queer POC. From elevated house parties and wellness-focused events to singles meetups and even kink and toy parties, we’ve expanded to provide spaces where our community can thrive. Additionally, we now host over 10 international trips each year, offering safe and exciting group travel experiences. We handle everything—accommodations.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Lesbifriends Travel is more than just a business; it’s a labor of love that has blossomed into a vibrant and thriving community. What makes it truly special is the incredible energy and people it attracts. I’ve always believed that good energy draws in more of the same, and that’s certainly true with Lesbifriends. The amazing individuals who join our trips and events are the heartbeat of what we do, and I feel incredibly fortunate to curate unique travel experiences and activities for such remarkable people. Supported by a small but dedicated team, we’ve built a community that I’m deeply proud of.
Lesbifriends Travel has become a central focus in my life, one that I approach with the same level of dedication as my career as an attorney. While it started as a passion project—a hobby business—it has evolved into something far more significant. I’ve found a balance that allows me to devote equal time and energy to both my legal career and my travel and event business. I’m a strong believer in the power of proper planning, which has been key to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This balance allows me to focus on my responsibilities while also taking time for myself and the people I care about.
Looking ahead, we are incredibly excited to roll out 12+ trips for 2025. These include everything from a glamping retreat with over 60+ queer POCs, to celebrating Carnival in Brazil, to a luxurious New Year’s safari in South Africa, and a deep cultural dive in Japan. Lesbifriends Travel invites you to join us from anywhere in the world, as we explore the globe safely and joyfully with like-minded Black and Brown womyn of substance. Our goal is to create unforgettable experiences while nurturing a community where everyone feels welcome and connected.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are: organization, community building, and the ability to balance passion with practicality.
First, organization has been key to my success. I thrive on checking things off my to-do list, whether it’s reorganizing my space or planning a new event. This skill has allowed me to manage multiple responsibilities, from my career as an attorney to running Lesbifriends Travel. For those early in their journey, I recommend developing strong organizational habits. Start with small tasks and gradually take on more complex projects. The ability to plan and execute effectively will serve you well in any endeavor.
Second, the importance of community cannot be overstated. Being a community organizer has given me the opportunity to create connections and lasting memories for others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be in the background, taking care of the details so that others can shine. If you’re just starting out, focus on building genuine relationships and finding ways to bring people together. Whether through professional networks, social events, or community projects, the connections you make will be invaluable to your growth.
Finally, balancing passion with practicality has been essential. While I’ve always known I wanted to be a lawyer and have achieved that goal, I also recognized the need for creativity and personal fulfillment outside of my legal career. This balance allows me to spend time with loved ones, travel, and contribute to my community. My advice for those beginning their journey is to pursue your passions but also remain grounded in practical realities. Create a life that allows you to enjoy what you love while taking care of your responsibilities.
In summary, being organized, valuing community, and balancing passion with practicality have shaped my journey. For anyone early in their journey, these are areas worth focusing on to help guide you toward success.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
One of the biggest challenges we face at Lesbifriends Travel is spreading the word about our group, trips, and events to queer POC. While we’ve built a strong and supportive community, reaching more people who would benefit from and contribute to our spaces remains a hurdle. We want to ensure that queer POC around the world know there’s a safe, inclusive, and exciting travel community out there just for them. We’re continually working on ways to expand our visibility, whether through social media, word-of-mouth, or collaborations, but it’s an ongoing effort to connect with those who might not yet know about us but would truly thrive within our community.
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