This past October, volunteers, partners, and staff from chapters and affiliates across the globe gathered in Long Beach, California to celebrate Surfrider’s 40th anniversary. The event was more than just a celebration - it was a powerful reminder of a dedicated community's impact on protecting our coasts and ocean.
The days were filled with sessions ranging from volunteer recruitment to generative conflict resolution, from environmental policy to coastal resilience. Panels led by activists, scientists, business owners, and surfers provided insight into pressing issues like coastal erosion, plastic pollution, and climate change. Like all Surfrider gatherings, it was an epic weekend of collaboration and camaraderie.
Florida Regional Manager, Evan Orellana, leading a session on volunteer recruitment and retention
The main highlight of these events is always getting to know the incredible humans that make up the Surfrider fam. There were plenty of opportunities during breakouts and between sessions to share and learn from one another. I especially enjoyed chatting up representatives from international affiliates, including Surfrider Australia, Surfrider Senegal, our amazing Canadian neighbors, and more! It’s truly stunning the scale of our impact as a global activist network.
Another highlight was the amazing keynote speaker lineup! Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, marines scientist, climate change activist, and all around rad human, shared the need to be strategic, resilient, and joyous in these changing times (for more on that, check out her new book, What If We Get It Right?). Professional big wave surfer, Greg Long, described his journey from surfer to activist and the need for more ocean recreators to become stewards of the marine ecosystems we share. Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert described the challenges of creating sustainable clothing in a complex, opaque, and globalized market (for more on that struggle, check out the documentary Fashion Reimagined.
Professional big wave surfer, Greg Long; Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson speaking on stage with Surfrider CEO Chad Nelson.
A third highlight for me was hearing so many stories of grassroots victories from longtime volunteers who’ve been with the organization since its early days. Their passion and persistence are a critical reminder of the time and dedication it takes to protect our coasts. More so now than ever.
And of course, an epic karaoke night! Surfrider rolled deep to a local bar to absolutely crush karaoke night. It seems statistically impossible to have so much talent in such a small group, but I learned long ago never to underestimate our volunteers.
Leaving the event, I felt more connected to the ocean and more determined than ever to do my part. Surfrider Foundation’s 40 years of advocacy and action are proof that individuals can create lasting change when united by a shared mission. Stoked to ride that wave of inspiration into 2025!
Here’s to another 40 years of protecting what we love!
The WA/AK crew, with representatives from all 6 Washington Chapters, plus Alaska!