Today we’d like to introduce you to Zachary Sales.
Hi Zachary, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Today, Official Military Skate is a social media brand whose mission is to give active duty and veteran military service members a community in skateboarding. It started in 2018 when I was trying to find a way to skate “The Berrics,” a private indoor skatepark in Los Angeles. I had the idea to have a Veterans Day event. I DMed everyone I knew that worked there in a group message on Instagram and pitched my idea. The CEO and founder messaged me back and said he was happy to accommodate. That’s how it all started.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been as smooth as I would like. There have been a lot of hurdles with getting events established, selling merchandise, and just building the brand in general.
I run everything myself on all social media platforms, organize events, anything, and everything, all while working a full-time job and going to school.
Realistically, 8000 followers in 4 and a half years isn’t that high. I would love to have a big enough following to be able to run the brand full-time and do what I’m most passionate about.
We’ve been impressed with Official Military Skate, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Official Military Skate is the first and only brand that gives veterans a community in skateboarding. There are veteran-owned skateboard companies, but that’s different. Those companies do amazing things for their communities also, but this is a place specifically for helping veterans.
We also work very closely with a veteran nonprofit called “Six Feet Above.” Their mission is to “shred the trend” of veteran suicide. You can donate to their cause at sixfeetabove.org! 10 percent of all proceeds of our business go to their nonprofit at the end of the year.
What makes you happy?
Skateboarding, spending time with loved ones, making memories, and helping people… and grilled cheese sandwiches.
There is nothing more satisfying than landing a new trick that you’ve been battling. Taking the resiliency of someone with that much dedication and combining it with the commitment of a military veteran creates a truly strong person.
Contact Info:
- Website: Militaryskate.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialmilitaryskate
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/offmilskate/status/1608623142465064961
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@officialmilitaryskate
- Other: https://discord.gg/vMNM9Yhb
