A Sister of the Sea: Salems Journey 

From Small Town to Saltwater Life

Salem’s story doesn’t begin by the sea. She grew up in a small town in North Carolina, about four hours from the coast. But even as a child, she felt an unshakable pull to the ocean. Her mom, sensing this, made sure they visited the beach at least once a year. Those early visits planted the first seeds of what would become a lifelong love for the sea.

Finding Water, Wherever She Could

With the ocean far away, Salem turned to swimming as her way to stay connected to the water. At just 11 years old, she became a competitive swimmer, chasing that same sense of calm and clarity she felt by the sea. Eventually, her journey led her to Oahu, Hawai‘i where she deepened her bond with the ocean through surfing and free-diving.

Now Based in Indonesia

After traveling to over 30 countries, Salem is now based in West Sumbawa, Indonesia. Her life follows the rhythm of the swell, and her days revolve around the ocean she once only dreamed of.

The Ocean’s Deeper Meaning

Though she didn’t grow up surfing, her connection to the water runs deep. “The ocean showed me my greatest love,” she says. “She taught me how to swim, how to surf, and gave me lifelong memories with the people I love most. She’s the reason I am who I am today.”

A Defining Moment

At 17, Salem was hit by a car while walking in a crosswalk. Her head missed the metal part of the vehicle by less than half a centimeter. It was a life-changing moment. “It sounds cliché,” she says, “but a near-death experience really does shift everything. From then on, I knew I had to live a life that truly set my soul on fire.”

Simple Joys, Full Heart

For Salem, happiness comes from the little things. Her recipe for joy includes slow mornings, 4–6 foot waves, and being surrounded by people who make her feel truly alive.

Why She Chose Elation

Salem was drawn to Elation not only for the products but also for the people behind the brand. “It feels more like a family than a company,” she says. Whether she’s swimming laps, free-diving, or catching waves, she trusts Elation gear to keep up with her lifestyle.

Her Elation Go-To

Her favourite combo? The Malé Bottom and Coco Top in Pitaya. Supportive, stylish, and made for movement. She’s already eyeing the Living Seas print for her next surf adventure.

What Elation Means to Her

“What I love most is Elation’s commitment to making a positive impact, not just on the planet but on people too. Mel and Abbey bring so much heart into everything they do. You can feel it in every piece.”

Words of Wisdom

“Don’t let fear be the thing that holds you back. We all feel it, especially when we’re trying something new. But fear isn’t the enemy. It’s your brain doing its job, trying to keep you safe. When it shows up, talk to it like a friend. Thank it. Then ask it to step aside so you can step into your power. The most beautiful, life-changing moments often live just on the other side of fear.”

Salem’s journey is a reminder that no matter where you come from, the call of the sea can lead you to a life full of purpose, connection, and wild, wave-filled joy.