My dad introduced me to surfing when I was about 6 years old. My family and I would spend every holiday in St Francis Bay, South Africa.. Ever since then the first time I got up on the board I was instantly hooked. Surfing is an addiction. What hooked me was the sense of freedom and connection with nature that surfing provides. Every wave is unique, and the thrill of riding a perfect wave is an experience like no other. Everything about surfing: the community, competitions and just being isolated from reality, fueled my passion and made me want to pursue surfing more seriously.

I strive to set my style apart by cultivating a unique, relaxed, and graceful approach which is heavily focused on nose riding.

Representing JBay Fin Design is an honor. It means being part of a brand that values innovation, quality, and the unique connection between surfer and ocean. For me, it’s about more than just using their products; it’s about embodying their values, showcasing the best of what surfing can be with their finely crafted fins and being a part of a family. It also means contributing to a community of surfers who are passionate about advancing the sport and sharing that passion with others.

The motto “Not just a fin, it’s a feeling” resonates with me as it captures the idea that the right equipment can transform your surfing experience from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s about the emotional connection and confidence you feel when you know you have the best fins under your board. For me, it means that each fin is designed with care and precision to enhance a surfer’s performance and connection with the wave, turning every session into something memorable and profound.

I currently ride the 10” Point, which is amazing for stability and smooth gliding. These fins provide excellent hold and control when nose riding and cross-stepping. I pair these fins with my 9’6″ Bennetts Single fin longboard, which is perfect for capturing the essence of traditional longboarding. When it gets a little bit bigger, I ride the George Bunting 2+1 setup, which allows for better control, speed and more responsive turns on bigger waves. The fins play a crucial role in shaping my experience by offering the right balance of manoeuvrability and stability. They allow me to perform elegant nose rides and fluid transitions, enhancing my overall connection with the wave and ensuring a graceful, enjoyable ride every time.

Outside of surfing, I have a few other passions and hobbies that I enjoy. I love cycling, running, hiking, water skiing and swimming, which help keep me fit and healthy and complement my surfing fitness. Additionally, I have a small creative side and enjoy making clothes whenever I have the time. It’s a great way for me to express my creativity and unwind when I’m not in the water.

My single greatest accomplishment as a surfer would be representing Africa on the WSL tour in Sydney, Australia. Although I didn’t perform as well as I had hoped, the experience was incredible. I had the opportunity to meet and chat with all my role models and watch them surf in person. It was a dream come true to be part of such a prestigious event and to connect with the surfing community at the highest level.

If I could have any celebrity caddy from the surfing world for a big contest, I’d choose Kai Lenny. Besides being an absolute legend in the surf scene, he’s known for his down-to-earth personality and good sense of humor. I can imagine him keeping the mood light on the beach, cracking jokes, and maybe even doing some impromptu board tricks to entertain the crowd between heats. Plus, his extensive knowledge of different surf conditions and techniques would be invaluable support during the competition. Having Kai by my side would not only be fun but also give me the confidence boost I need to take on the waves.

While both shortboarding and longboarding have their merits, I believe longboarding reigns supreme. Longboarding captures the essence of surfing’s roots with its emphasis on style, grace, and flow. The beauty of longboarding lies in its ability to blend seamlessly with the wave, allowing surfers to perform timeless maneuvers like nose riding and cross-stepping. It’s not just about the thrill of riding a wave; it’s about connecting with the ocean in a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing way. The elegance and fluidity of longboarding offer a unique and profound experience that embodies the true spirit of surfing.

The original Surf Soul is definitely still alive, though it faces challenges from commercialisation. True surf culture is about a deep connection to the ocean, a sense of community, and the freedom and joy of riding waves. To keep this spirit alive, the next generation can focus on preserving the core values of surfing. This means respecting the environment, supporting local surf communities, and embracing the inclusive, laid-back lifestyle that surfing promotes. By prioritising the love of the sport over commercial interests and fostering a genuine appreciation for the ocean, the next generation can ensure that the authentic Surf Soul thrives.