I want to be clear about what I mean when I use the word Sisterhood. You’ll hear me say “women” a lot — because that’s a shared experience many of us can immediately relate to in sailing. But I also know that framing isn’t big enough to capture everyone who may feel marginalized in this sport. “Sisterhood” here is a loose term — it’s for women, nonbinary folks, queer folks, and anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit the typical sailing culture and are ready for something better. At its core, this space is for people who don’t see themselves reflected in the traditional sailing culture —the opposite of the “rich white guy” default that has shaped so much of this sport. Starting with familiar language felt like the most effective way to bring people together — but this space is meant to grow beyond that. I want this to evolve. More voices. More perspectives. More ways to support each other. If you feel like this space is for you — it is. And if there are ways we can expand, improve, or create additional spaces within this community, I’m all for it!

I pulled this initial group together intentionally — because we’ve already been having these conversations, and I trust how you show up. This is a small crew right now, which means we get to set the tone from the beginning. The goal is simple: Create a space where women in sailing can actually connect, be honest about their experiences, and raise the standard together. Let’s go!! Please post freely and start real conversations that feel natural. Share what’s actually happening out there, and how we want to change this all for the better. I’ll be adding video and educational content as we go, so this can also become a space for learning and growth. If something sparks a bigger conversation or could turn into a resource, bring it! The goal is to make this feel like a space people can step into and immediately think, “oh… I belong here.” Once the tone is set and this space is alive with your energy, I’ll open it up to everyone. Thank you for being part of this from the beginning — seriously. I'm so excuted to build something better together. ⚓

If you’re new here, start with the Start Here Course (<linked) that lives in the Classroom Section — it’ll walk you through how this space works and what we’re building together. This isn’t just another group. It’s a space to: - connect - speak up - support each other - and raise the standard for how women are treated in sailing You don’t need to have anything figured out to be here. 👇Go through the course, then jump into the intro thread and say hi when you’re ready. This space is what we make it — so don’t be shy about showing up.

I created Sailing Sisterhood because being a woman in sailing can feel like an uphill battle at times — but it doesn’t have to be. This space exists so we can connect, support each other, and raise the standard for how women are treated and show up in this sport — together. Anonymity is encouraged here. Using a nickname or non-identifying username is the norm — especially when sharing sensitive experiences like harassment or mistreatment (see the "Start Here" classroom about how we'll do this here safely). I’ll be using my real name at times as I build this space and share video content or educational material, but for the most part, I’ll be participating under a more anonymous username too. This isn’t about proving yourself or having it all figured out. It's about showing up as you are, building confidence, and learning from each other along the way. ⚓ Inside this community you’ll find: • Real, honest conversations • Support from women who get it • A respectful, judgment-free space • Shared knowledge — from beginner to elite From time to time, I plan to host live conversations, have guest speakers, or simple Q&As. There’s no right way to be here. Lurk, read, jump in, or post when you’re ready. 👇 If you’d like, start off with sharing some thoughts with the group: – Favorite sailing experience – Least favorite sailing experience – What you’re hoping to get from this space (your wishlist) This is something we’re building together. I’ll keep adding resources as it becomes clear what’s most helpful — so don’t be shy about sharing what you want to see here. I’m really glad you’re came. Let’s build a sailing community where we all feel supported — and thrive. - Melissa