From Coral Reefs to Global Impact: The Story of Keith Rossin and MANG Apparel

Growing up in South Florida, right in the heart of West Palm Beach and just minutes away from PBA, Keith Rossin, a PBA alumnus, quickly developed a passion for diving and fishing. He was drawn to the vibrant coral reefs and thriving marine life—so much that when he and his twin brother, Kyle, began to see the rapid decline in reefs and mangroves, they formulated a plan of action to solve the growing problem. That is how MANG Apparel, a performance fishing and casual apparel company, was founded.

“We really wanted to bring a positive light into how we could be stewards of God’s creation,” Keith shares. “MANG was built on biblical principles, and we have truly given our business fully to God. We wanted to create something that had meaning.”

The Rossin brothers didn’t just want to start a clothing company, however. They wanted to make a positive impact on their community, and ultimately on the world. To achieve this, Keith and his brother started a “buy one, plant one” initiative, promising to plant one mangrove for every one item purchased on the MANG website. Now, nine years after MANG was founded, 625,856 mangroves have been planted, according to their website, and the brothers have been able to expand their planting efforts, working with other nonprofits, scientific researchers and community leaders. Mangroves are vital to South Florida’s ecosystem—not only do they protect coastlines from erosion, but they also improve water quality and provide food and habitat for thousands of marine life species.

Every month MANG hosts nursery events at their headquarters in West Palm Beach, which is open to the public. This allows locals to immerse themselves in the world of mangroves, which is unfamiliar territory to many.

“We are really focused on engaging the community in meaningful and tangible ways,” Keith shares. “We want to educate our neighbors on the importance of the ecosystems around them.” Keith credits much of his success to his alma mater, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology in 2016. He is a living testament to PBA’s mission to equip students to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction and serve God boldly. Not only did Keith start MANG during his time at PBA, but he also recalls the lasting friendships and connections the University gave him. He had such a positive experience that he currently serves on the Alumni Association board, where he continues to engage with students and alumni as he gives back to the West Palm Beach community.

“PBA shaped me into the business leader that I want to be, and it is continuing to open doors today that would have never been opened had I not attended.” he reflects. “Without PBA, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today, and I wouldn’t be the person that I am today.”

MANG’s impact goes beyond West Palm Beach and South Florida. In 2018, Keith and his brother were making so many sales that they needed to figure out a way to plant more mangroves. Thus came the decision to start planting internationally, which stemmed from a desire to see positive change in countries and coastlines affected by deforestation and pollution around the globe. “We always want to protect what God has given us. Our biggest way of saying thank you to God for what He has given us is understanding how to protect it better,” Keith says. “We are really just focused on making an impact—that’s what drives us at the end of the day.”