As a fellow Londoner, speaking with Jaye Hannah felt more like a deep conversation over coffee than an interview. She exudes warmth and a palpable sense of purpose when discussing Courtyard —her new editorial platform focused on black and brown travel. We connected over shared stories of London’s vibrant culture, the diverse art scene and the different paths life has taken us. For Jaye, her journey from London to France, Berlin, and back again shaped more than just her identity; it laid the groundwork for a platform that aims to revolutionise travel narratives for those of us within the diaspora.
“London is definitely home, but I’ve always felt at home in different places, and yet sometimes not entirely at home anywhere,” Jaye shared with a reflective smile. That duality—a mix of belonging and navigating the unfamiliar—seems central to her ethos. Courtyard isn’t just about documenting trips; it’s about making space for stories that dig deep into cultural heritage, roots, and the myriad ways black and brown people experience travel.
From Copywriter to Cultural Curator
Before launching Courtyard, Jaye’s career path might surprise you. She spent years in B2B copywriting for SaaS and EdTech companies—a far cry from travel writing. But her skills as a communicator, combined with her passion for storytelling, became a foundation for something much more personal. In 2017, Jaye first conceived of a travel platform centred on remote work—a prescient idea that resonated during the rise of digital nomadism. However, life had other plans, and Courtyard as we know it came to fruition only recently.
The turning point? A yoga retreat in Gambia earlier this year, where she found herself surrounded by friends in the black and brown community. “It was such a powerful, grounding experience,” Jaye explained. “To be in that environment, connecting through movement and culture—it made me realise just how deeply our stories needed to be told.”
Telling Our Stories, Our Way
Jaye’s vision for Courtyard goes beyond surface-level travel recommendations. The platform aims to spotlight the diverse ways black and brown people explore the world, contrasting how European and American tourism approaches can differ. Whether it’s profiling creatives who’ve made new homes in far-flung corners or sharing culturally immersive travel guides, Courtyard.day is a testament to a growing desire for authenticity and representation in travel.
“I want to highlight those who are not just passing through, but putting down roots—those creating something beautiful and lasting wherever they go,” Jaye said. This focus on deep connection resonates with many of us navigating a world that sometimes feels reluctant to see beyond stereotypes. It’s about showing all sides—the celebrations, the challenges, and the everyday life that makes each journey unique.
I want to highlight those who are not just passing through, but putting down roots—those creating something beautiful and lasting wherever they go.
Jaye Hannah, Founder of Courtyard
Looking Ahead
Though Jaye speaks fondly of her childhood trips to the South of France—places filled with memories and reconnections—it’s clear she’s most excited about Courtyard’s future. West Africa, and especially her upcoming trip to Kenya, holds immense promise.
Jaye’s work reminds us that travel is as much about introspection and community as it is about seeing new places. For black and brown travellers—young creatives, cultural seekers, and entrepreneurs—Courtyard offers a space that centres their experiences, elevating voices that deserve to be heard.
