Celebrating Black History Month

Meet Stefanie Saleem

When speaking with the Co-founder of Black Girls Boat, it became clear that her passion for the water runs deep. "I came into boating because I really enjoy it," she shared. "I've boated all over the world—Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Spain, Italy—you name it. When I moved back to Tampa, I knew I wanted to buy a boat, but as a single woman, I wasn’t sure where to start. Joining Freedom Boat Club was my entryway into boating."

This journey sparked her desire to create Black Girls Boat, an initiative that connects Black women with resources to enter the boating world. "A lot of Black people, and Black women especially, don’t have exposure to boating or know where to start. With Black Girls Boat, we’re providing education, connecting people with programs like MarineMax’s Women on Water classes, and encouraging them to explore boating."

Her advocacy goes beyond education. It’s about addressing barriers to entry, such as swimming. "A lot of Black people can’t swim—that’s the truth," she said. "For the Love of Water Foundation provides free swimming lessons to break down that barrier. Swimming builds confidence and combined with wearing a life jacket, it makes being on the water safe and accessible." For information on this program, head to Black Girls Boat instagram page.

She also emphasized the benefits of boating, not just for fun but for mental well-being. "It’s healing. It’s relaxing. It’s great for your mental health and helps you connect with others. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing it with the Black community."

For her, boating transcends race, but during Black History Month, it’s a powerful opportunity to inspire. "Boating is for everyone. It’s about mental health and relaxation. Being out on the water resets you—it’s energy for the soul."

Meet Ismail Dubose

Ismail Dubose, a talented and knowledgeable technician at MarineMax Clearwater, has been a part of the boating industry for nearly nine years. Starting as a boat detailer after moving to the area, he worked his way up to becoming a skilled technician, admired for his expertise with all types of boats. He finds the boating industry exciting and rewarding, as it allows him to meet people from diverse backgrounds. His favorite vessel is the Boston Whaler 270 Dauntless, praised for its versatile performance on any adventure.

When reflecting on Black History Month, Ismail emphasizes the need for ongoing discussion and education about Black history beyond just one month. "There is so much about Black history that is untold, unwritten, or even rewritten," he shares. He believes it’s essential to recognize not only the history of slavery but also the inventions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history and into the present.

Quoting philosopher George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” Ismail stresses the importance of preserving and learning from history. Let’s not forget about it, erase it, or change it. Let’s talk about it and learn about it and from it," he says. His perspective underscores the significance of keeping history alive, not only as a remembrance but also as a guide for progress.