Welcome to our latest blog series, where we are thrilled to introduce our newest brand ambassadors! These passionate adventurers share an unbreakable bond with nature, each bringing their unique stories and experiences to the table. We got to hear about their journeys—from the first moments they caught the adventure bug to the mentors and friends who helped them along the way.
In this Q&A, you’ll learn about their favorite outdoor spots, memorable mishaps, and proudest achievements. So, kick back and join us as we dive into the lives of these inspiring outdoor enthusiasts and discover what makes their connection to nature so special.
Meet two of our newest brand ambassadors, Keana and Taran Buie.
Q: What is your primary passion (activity, pursuit, adventure)? Please describe how it fits into your life?
Hiking is our primary passion in this phase of life! It's an activity that allows us to spend time exploring, exercising and bonding as a family. It's given us the opportunity to see beautiful places and make so many amazing memories.
Q: What are your secondary activities/passions?
When we aren't hiking you can find us camping, road trippin or rock climbing. We're huge advocates of learning new things & visiting new places as a family. Our boys are water babies so we spend a lot of time at the beach, kayaking and checking out new swimming spots.
Q: In relation to that primary passion, can you tell us when you first got the itch? Did you have a mentor, family member, friend or guide who helped get you into it?
Our relationship began in Los Angeles, CA where hiking is plentiful! Early in our relationship we used it as a way to explore new areas while learning more about each other. We quickly fell in love with hiking and it has continued to play a huge role in our lives even after two kids.
Q: In what ways do you find and inspire joy on your adventures or in your active lifestyle? How do you break away from pre-packaged outdoor experiences and imprint your own style on your adventures?
We find joys in the small moments of wonder, like the sound of waves crashing or the sight of a breathtaking mountain vista. We aim to inspire joy by sharing these experiences with our sons, encouraging them to appreciate nature's beauty and foster a sense of curiosity about the world around us. We break away from pre-packaged outdoor experiences by making the adventures work for us, as a family. We love finding ways to make our adventures kid friendly and adding in experiences for each member of our family.
Q: Have you had any noteworthy active/adventure mishaps, successes, or a-ha moments?
Our biggest mishap while adventuring has been mistaking a loop trail for a through trail, turning a 3 mile hike into a 13 mile hike through the jungles of Tahiti with a 1 year old in tow.
Q: Where is your favorite place to spend a day in the outdoors?
Our go to spot when we need a day outside is Point Dume in California! It's got mountains and beaches so you can hike, rock climb, see wildlife, play in the sand and swim all at one spot! We totally recommend adding it to your next SoCal itinerary.
Q: Who inspires you, both personally and in the world of adventure and/or travel
Our family is inspired by each other daily! In the world of adventure and travel we are inspired by all the indigenous that have walked the trails and climbed the mountains before us, as well as modern day adventurers such as Nirmal Purja, Mario Rigby and Dwane Fields.
Q: What is your greatest adventure/active lifestyle triumph?
We are most proud that we've managed to maintain an active life full of adventure while raising two young boys. Living an adventurous life while being an involved parent can be tough. Our children always join us on our adventures and we encourage them to learn new skills and push their limits.
Q: What is your next trip active lifestyle goal or skill you’d like to learn?
We'd love to add canyoning to our repertoire! We're also hoping to dive deeper into climbing and get some safety and guide training.
Q: Where do you really want to go and why?
Our family really wants to explore all Australia & New Zealand have to offer! We'd love to be able to do cross country road trips through both countries. From the Great Barrier Reef and Outback in Australia to rafting and canyoning in New Zealand, we can't wait to see it all!
Q: What are your current favorite outdoor clothes that aid you in outdoor adventure or active lifestyle pursuits? How do you plan to enhance your activities with Outdoor Afro Inc. gear?
Keana is currently living in tennis dresses and cargo pants, while Taran can be found rocking light trail pants and graphic tees. We plan to use our Outdoor Afro Inc. gear to stay warm as the seasons change and we explore the east coast.
Q: What is your favorite Outdoor Afro Inc. product, and why? Or a product you’re most excited to try out?
We love the 1/4 zip fleeces! They're so comfy and light yet keep you warm on all your adventures. We're super excited to check out the tent and camping pillows.
Q: How do you like to connect with your community and the people within it?
We love spending time in our community engaging with the people within it. Our favorite way to do that is through events and meetups! We love a good festival or hiking group.
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Hope you enjoyed learning a little more about our brand ambassador, Keana and Taran. Now we want to hear from you! What else do you want to hear from us? Let us know on social media: @outdoorafroinc.
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Want to learn more about our REI x Outdoor Afro Inc. collection? Check out the collection here.
