"I am a #womanofthewater, always have been and always will be. Growing up in the Santa Cruz surf community, I was continually pushed and inspired to be the best surfer possible. After competing for many years as a kid I was tired of the pressure and completely gave up surfing all together. It just wasn't fun anymore.
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When I turned 21, I sold everything and bought a ticket to Costa Rica. With just a backpack on my back I set out on my first solo travel adventure. I vividly remember the first time my toes touched the warm ocean, my eyes filled with tears. Who knew the ocean could be so warm and beautiful? For the first time in years, I immediately felt the desire to get on my board and go for a surf. After traveling for a few weeks I finally landed in a beautiful little beach town called Santa Teresa. The moment I set foot on that dirt road my whole body got covered in goose bumps and I knew this was MY place. The community and this long stretch of white sandy beach captivated my whole being. This beach break humbled me every single day and pushed me to fall deeply madly in love with the sport of surfing again. One of my favorite quotes is "The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul."
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A little over a year ago all of my passions collided. After having a dream about making eco-friendly swimwear I contacted @mona.picasso (an old friend from Santa Teresa) to share my ideas, soon after we partnered up and rebranded the most badass swimwear company out there @wearemona. I am so proud of all that we accomplished and excited to see all that we will become. Now together we can move through this life empowering women to live their most authentic lives and protecting the oceans at the same time. Dreams do come true!" - @machillaa
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TAG the powerful #womanofthewater that you have in your life! Check out our story highlights for details on how sharing your story of how you are a #womanofthewater can win you kickass prize package from @wearemona, @thisisforthewomen and @paragonsurfboards