Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakira Brown Rice.
Hi Shakira, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was raised by my great-grandmother and my great-aunts in a small town called Forsyth, Georgia—a place where everyone truly knows your name. During my years of matriculating through school, our town had just one elementary school, one middle school, and one public high school.
At an early age, I quickly realized that “my ladies”—as I affectionately call them—were deeply respected everywhere we went: in stores, at churches, and throughout the community.
Our home, lovingly known as the “Big House,” was always filled with laughter, love, people, food, and music. If anyone was ever in need, they knew they could come to the Big House for help. My ladies taught me the importance of always showing up for others if you’re able to lend a hand.
Although none of them had a formal education, they were the wisest women I’ve ever known. They had mastered the art of “in all thy getting, get understanding.” They showed me that being fully present and intentional in every situation—seeking true comprehension and awareness—leads to a kind of wisdom that money can’t buy.
They always emphasized the value of education and made sure I had everything I needed to succeed in school and extracurricular activities. My after-school routine always started with “getting my lesson” at the kitchen table before dinner. In our house, whatever the teacher said was considered gospel.
Each summer, they made sure I experienced a vacation. I have fond memories of packing lunches for our road trips to Florida to visit family. They would beam with pride as they shared stories about traveling later in their own lives. Without realizing it, they were building the foundation for my love of learning, people, and exploration.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Throughout my life journey, I’ve faced my fair share of struggles. Being an educator is definitely not for the faint of heart—it requires immense self-discipline, unwavering dedication, and a deeply rooted sense of purpose. But when you live a purpose-driven life, you always find the strength to keep going.
Education was actually my second career. When I decided to become an educator, I had to return to college to earn my certification. I was literally working a full-time teaching job, coaching cheerleaders, and driving to the University of West Georgia two or three nights a week for classes. Once I became certified, I kept going and eventually earned my Specialist in Education degree.
After several years in the classroom, I was promoted to Assistant Principal and later Principal. It was during those administrative years that I realized the importance of preparing students earlier in life to ensure long-term success. That realization led my husband and me to open our first daycare in 2012.
As new business owners, we learned many lessons the hard way. But with time, growth, and persistence, we opened a second location in 2016. Today, we run both centers with a laser-like focus on exposure and preparedness. Our daycare scholars are introduced to college concepts, Black history, STEM, the arts, and more. As a result, 90% of them go on to be tested for Gifted Services in school.
As I approach retirement, I’ve launched my travel business, Brown Rice Travels—a venture that allows me to operate at the intersection of my two greatest passions: education and exploration. I firmly believe that education is the ultimate equalizer, and travel is one of the most powerful forms of learning.
“The best education you will ever get is traveling. Nothing teaches you more than exploring the world and accumulating experiences.”
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Brown Rice Travels is more than just a travel business — we provide personalized travel concierge services designed to create unforgettable experiences.
Traveling isn’t just about checking off destinations; it’s about immersing yourself in cultures, expanding your perspective, and embracing new possibilities.
With extensive personal travel experience and firsthand knowledge, I take pride in being able to guide my clients on the best places to eat, things to do, and must-see sites. Every itinerary is thoughtfully curated, not just booked.
Before I begin planning, I spend time getting to know each client — their interests, preferences, and travel goals. This conversation is key to crafting a truly personalized experience.
My goal? For every client to return home feeling rested, enriched, and inspired.
Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, friends, or going solo — Brown Rice Travels will design a journey you’ll never forget.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Traveling has always been a passion of mine, so when I launched Brown Rice Travels, no one was surprised. I believe in being your authentic self and letting your passions and purpose guide your path. While some people can succeed in unfamiliar industries, many successful business owners build ventures that align with their natural talents, passions, and purpose.
Before starting my business, I had already established myself as a respected community leader and professional educator. That foundation gave me a strong network, which helped me grow my client base quickly.
To further strengthen my expertise, I joined travel groups and professional communities to expand my knowledge and connect with other travel advisors.
But what has made the biggest difference? Trust.
People trust me with their travel plans because of my character and consistent track record as someone who operates with integrity, professionalism, and care.
Pricing:
- Traveling can be done with any budget. It’s the experience that counts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shakirarice.inteletravel.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560988716720
- Other: Tik Tok @brownricetravels
