We are thrilled to announce that earlier this year, Safari McMandon became Reel Skipper’s very first sponsored athlete! Safari embodies everything our brand stands for: adventure, resilience, passion for the water, and a heart for giving back. At just 15 years old, Safari is already making waves in the surfing world and beyond, leaving her mark on the global stage with her talent, ambition, and adventurous spirit.
Originally from North Florida, Safari spent ten years living on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua, a place she still calls home. Fluent in English and Spanish, with French now added to her repertoire, Safari is a true world traveler. Her journeys span from Hawaii to Morocco and beyond – whether surfing, spearfishing, or immersing herself in new cultures, Safari's lifestyle reflects the freedom and spirit that Reel Skipper is all about.
But Safari isn’t just a talented athlete – she gives back to the communities she’s connected with. In the summer of 2023, she spent weeks volunteering in rural Nicaragua through the Surfers for Salvation foundation, where she served as a translator and helped provide school supplies, household essentials, and water filters to families in need. Her efforts highlight her belief that adventure isn’t just about exploring new places but about making a positive impact wherever she goes.
We couldn’t be more proud to have Safari as part of the Reel Skipper team. Stay tuned for an exclusive feature of Safari’s "Top Picks" from our collection, curated by her, and join us in welcoming her as she embarks on her next adventure – representing Reel Skipper both in the water and out in the world.