March 2025

Worldly Women of Travel: Interview with Sarah Mackey

GIVEjoy’s latest interview in the Worldly Women series features Sarah Mackey. I had the pleasure of meeting Sarah on a recent volunteer build in Siem Reap, Cambodia in December 2024. Sarah’s passion and dedication for making a positive difference is a shining example to us all. Her curiosity, empathy, and enthusiasm are just a few of her many positive traits I admire.

When Sarah is not traveling the world on volunteer projects, she channels her expertise focused on supporting women and underrepresented communities as the Executive Director of Women in Security and Privacy (WISP). I’m honored to share Sarah’s interview with you. Enjoy!

Per February 2025 Interview

What / who first inspired you to travel

I have spent my entire career working in the nonprofit sector, including time as executive director of a Habitat for Humanity affiliate in the United States. Habitat for Humanity affiliates are part of a global Habitat for Humanity movement to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. With my day-to-day work, I was engaged in fulfilling this mission and building homes in my community, but I wanted to explore how this mission was realized in other parts of the world. As such, I participated in my first international home building project with a team build in Guatemala. Meeting the people and learning about their culture, all while building homes, really inspired me to continue travelling.

What was your most meaningful trip? Where was it, and how was it meaningful?

“I have learned that although our daily experiences may differ, we share our desires for joy, happiness, laughter, and good health.” – Sarah Mackey

The most meaningful trips have been those where I was most embedded into the communities I was visiting. From staying in a local home in Zambia to falafels in kitchens across Jordan to tea in living rooms throughout Armenia, it has been so meaningful to be welcomed into the homes of others around the world. Connecting with individuals on a personal level and being invited into their spaces has given me a deep appreciation for our different ways of life. Through our interactions and conversations, I have learned that although our daily experiences may differ, we share our desires for joy, happiness, laughter, and good health.

How have your experiences traveling impacted your perspectives?

Through my travels, I have admired the creativity and ingenuity that people around the world bring to their lives. It is truly amazing to see the processes and solutions that have been developed locally in communities around the world, and to see how differently things are done than what I am accustomed to doing or seeing in my own community. And I’ve witnessed firsthand how solutions that thrive in one context may not always translate seamlessly to another. To me, this highlights the importance of really recognizing the unique strengths and resources we have at our disposal and finding innovative ways to leverage them to advance our goals. And also, the importance of humility to learn from others who have more experience in a particular context than you do.

What is next on your travel adventure list and why?

I look forward to continuing to travel and visit new communities where I am able to engage with the local community and support their efforts to improve the quality of life in their communities. I am researching destinations now!

What advice would you give to others considering an international trip?

I would advise folks to really consider what they want to get out of their international travels. There is so much to experience in the world, and clarifying your interests before you travel will help ensure you are successful in having an amazing trip! What is an amazing trip for one person may be the worst trip ever for someone else. So, invest the time upfront to consider your priorities when traveling.

Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your valuable insights and inspiring story!