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When people think of Airbnb, they often see it as just a platform to book a room or a house for their travels. But, as Brian Chesky, Airbnb’s co-founder and CEO, reveals, that’s not what the company is truly about. It’s not just about facilitating travel but about creating connections and building a sense of belonging.
Photo: Eugene Gologursky—Fast Company
A Story of Friendship
Chesky shares a touching story that highlights Airbnb’s deeper mission. He recalls meeting a host named Sebastian in North London. Sebastian told Brian, “There’s a word you never use on your website—friendship.” He explained that during the London riots, he was scared for his safety. His mother called him the next day to check on him, but something else remarkable happened.
In the 24 hours after the riots, seven of Sebastian’s former Airbnb guests reached out to see if he was okay. These were people from different parts of the world, but they had all stayed with him through Airbnb, and they cared about his well-being.
A New Meaning of Travel
This story profoundly impacted Chesky. It showed that Airbnb isn’t just about transactional travel; it’s about creating real human connections. When guests leave, they don’t just leave a house—they leave with friendships and memories. The fact that Sebastian’s former guests called him before his own mother speaks volumes about the sense of community Airbnb fosters.
A Mission to Belong
At its core, Chesky says, Airbnb’s mission is to help people feel like they belong anywhere. Whether you're in a foreign city or a familiar neighborhood, the sense of connection and belonging is what drives Airbnb’s vision. It’s not just about where you stay—it’s about how you feel when you stay there. That’s what Airbnb is all about—bringing people together, creating friendships, and building a global community.
In an era where technology often seems to isolate us, Airbnb is using its platform to create real, lasting connections. For Chesky, it's more than a business; it's a mission to unite the world in a way that transcends borders and backgrounds.
Listen to Brian Chesky:
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