In this special Hispanic Heritage Month episode of On The Reel and Be What You Don’t See, Ubuntu Fly Anglers Network host Bob Bartlett sits down with South Carolina fly angler Miriam Jorns to talk about heritage, representation, community, and belonging in the outdoors.
Born in Mexico and raised in South Carolina, Miriam’s connection to fishing began alongside her father and eventually led her to discover fly fishing, new waters, and a community that helped her grow as an angler. She shares the challenges of entering a sport where she rarely saw people who looked like her and how mentors, friendships, and volunteering with young anglers helped her recognize the importance of her own visibility.
Miriam also reflects on what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her, the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation, and why representation must go beyond simply being invited into a space. Her journey reminds us that meaningful change begins with showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable, and creating room for those who have yet to see themselves represented.
At its heart, this episode celebrates the idea behind #BeWhatYouDontSee and #iFishiBelong: when people see themselves reflected on the water and in the outdoor community, they can begin to imagine themselves there, too.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.
Episode Notes –
- Miriam’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mgjorns/
- All Kids Fish Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/allkidsfish/
- Chatahoochee Riverkeeper Becca Sue Klein All Kids Fish
- iFishiBelong Becca Sue Klein All Kids Fish Program
Podcast Overview – On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It’s about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.
