Chapters, West Region

As Surfrider’s San Diego Chapter Manager, Joana will support volunteer-led efforts, programs, and campaigns throughout San Diego County. 

Before arriving at Surfrider, Joana connected children and adults to wildlife and habitats at the San Diego Zoo. Her previous roles have informed her skills and knowledge in guest engagement, advocacy, informal education, and program development. Most recently, Joana managed a local nonprofit, where she taught life skills to girls through running. She has led several Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) panels and facilitated conversations around accessibility for all in the field of conservation.

A local of San Diego, her passion for advocacy and conservation began in college. Joana studied Anthropology at San Diego State University (SDSU), where she grew an appreciation for culture, biology, and traveling. She has visited fourteen countries and is looking to add more to her list! Joana also likes to give back to the community by volunteering. One of her favorite volunteer opportunities came when she was able to collaborate with Latin American professionals in capacity-building programs in Mexico. If she's not working or traveling, she's most likely at a Padres baseball game with her brother. Joana also loves spending time with her family and friends, and never denies any dog asking for some pets and snuggles.