The latest season of Below Deck Mediterranean has already made waves, partly due to the leadership of Captain Sandy Yawn. Known for her strong professional demeanor and commitment to inclusivity, Sandy continues to inspire both her crew and audiences alike.
Captain Sandy Praised for Her Empowering Leadership
This season on the yacht Mustique, Captain Sandy showcased her ability to foster a supportive environment even during tumultuous times. The second episode titled ‘Sneak, Sip, and Sink’ was particularly telling as it featured rocky seas but also glimpses into Sandy’s inclusive leadership style.
A highlight of the episode included new cast member Chef Johnathan ‘Jono’ Shillingford refusing to help second stew Elena ‘Ellie’ Dubaich cook late-night food for the guests. It’s moments like these where Sandy’s stern yet fair approach helps the crew navigate through difficult situations.
Sandy Celebrates LGBTQ+ Inclusivity
Sandy isn’t just about maintaining order; she actively promotes diversity and inclusivity on her yacht. This season’s debut coincided with Pride Month, adding a special layer of meaning. The show featured LGBTQ+ guests, providing a space for authentic representation and celebration.
In an Instagram video, Chef Jono described his experience working on the yacht under Captain Sandy. He called meeting her iconic
and referred to her as a Bravo queer icon
. This admiration is echoed by fans who appreciate Sandy’s openness about loving both women and men.
A Glimpse Into Personal Milestones
Beyond her role on the yacht, Captain Sandy recently married her longtime partner Leah Shafer in an intimate ceremony held aboard a super yacht. The event was filled with love and laughter, overseen by Below Deck Med’s executive producer Nadine Rajabi.
The couple has also celebrated other milestones like moving to Florida and into a new house, marking new chapters in their lives together.
Kyle Viljoen Opens Up About His Engagement
LGBTQ+ representation continued with stew Kyle Viljoen sharing his engagement to Dr. Zachary Riley. Viljoen shared on Instagram, including photos of himself down on one knee proposing amid the breathtaking scenery of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. The emotional moment highlighted the importance of proud expression in their relationship.
Sandy Continues To Inspire Through Challenging Times
The invaluable lessons imparted by Captain Sandy are evident in every interaction, whether it involves managing a crew’s morale through rough seas or celebrating life’s significant moments. As we continue watching this season of Below Deck Med, we see not just a display of yachting excellence but also a forward-thinking approach championing inclusivity and empowerment.
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