Jackson: When He Pointed Me Out I Thought 'Where Can I Run?'
In this episode of Unexpected Happiness, Ariel talks with Jackson, an African safari guide.
Jackson shares what it was like growing up in a small village in Tanzania, where joy is created through connection, and where if one person has a problem, the whole community shows up to carry it together.
He also opens up about one of the most difficult moments of his life—having his wedding called off just one week before it was supposed to happen, and being publicly called out in front of his entire church community. What followed was a season of embarrassment, loss, and figuring out how to rebuild when everything felt uncertain.
Through the steady support of his family, he slowly found his way back. From learning how to cope in the middle of depression, to discovering small moments of freedom and peace, to eventually starting a business that took two years to get its first client.
Today, he shares how that persistence turned into a life centered around helping others—creating safari experiences that not only explore the beauty of Tanzania, but also directly support local communities.
Through it all, Jackson reflects on what truly makes him happy, why serving others matters so much to him, and the mindset that helped him keep going when nothing was guaranteed.
Listen to this episode if you want to:
Understand what it looks like to be supported through a deeply difficult moment—and how family, in very different ways, can help you find your way back.
Hear a real story of moving through public embarrassment and starting over when life doesn’t go the way you expected.
Learn what it actually takes to keep going when nothing is working yet—and how to stay committed without immediate results.
Be reminded how simple presence—someone sitting with you, checking on you, not leaving—can matter more than having the “right” answers.
See how persistence, even without guarantees, can slowly turn into stability, purpose, and meaningful work.
Understand how growing up in a deeply connected community can shape the way you experience hardship, joy, and responsibility to others.
Resources
Interested in a service safari with Jackson and his team - https://shannahtours.com/about-us/
