Why and when did you get involved with the Surfrider Foundation?
I got involved with the Surfrider’s Cape Fear Chapter approximately two years ago. Holding a B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), and having attended several Surfrider beach cleanups, I wanted to take a more active role — especially regarding the local issues that impact our community.
What are some issues that affect water quality in your community?
One of the biggest issues in the Cape Fear region is Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), particularly GenX.
While Chemours (formerly DuPont) had been discharging chemical waste into the Cape Fear waterways since the late-1970s, it was only after studies conducted around 2017 revealed high levels of PFAS and GenX that the true scope of the contamination became clear. This discovery raised major concern regarding the overall health of our water and the community. Given the risks — ranging from developmental to cancerous issues — this remains a vital concern we still face within the community.
How is the Cape Fear Chapter responding to those issues?
In response to these issues, we have launched several initiatives to raise community awareness and encourage local involvement. From hosting beach cleanups and testing water quality to speaking at events about the dangers of PFAS, we ensure this remains a primary focus across all Cape Fear Chapter programs.
Our goal is to help people understand the severity of the issue and, more importantly, how to be proactive. We want to empower the community to find solutions for cleaner water and work to prevent future environmental disasters like the Chemours contamination.
What has been the highlight of your Surfrider experience?
The biggest highlight within my Surfrider experience is seeing the excitement, commitment, and growth of college students within the BWTF program. Being able to witness just how involved and impassioned they are not only just about learning, but also how to build upon and improve methodologies and overall processes for the betterment of the program has been a delight of mine. It gives me peace of mind and brighter hope for the next wave of younger people growing up that will care and do amazing work once they step into their own.
Do you have any personal experiences where the social justice and environmental movements have intersected?
I would say the most impactful campaign issue that has impassioned me is water health equality for all. For example, I attended a meeting with the then-Chair of the Cape Fear Chapter Keni
Reinks at Cape Fear River Watch. We learned so much about the catastrophic impacts of PFAS, especially Gen X, on many marginalized communities. One in particular is the Little Rock community that has dealt with horrendous conditions — no access to clean water, whether it be drinking, bathing, sewer, etc. The lack of access and awareness of their issues was heartbreaking to see and hear.
Being a BIPOC woman of color myself, this touched my heart and upset me knowing that even when it comes to basic essentials such as clean water, there is an inequality for some marginalized communities. Whether it be due to economic status, race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or disabilities, the equality for us all to have clean water is paramount no matter the reason.
Why is being a part of Surfrider important to you?
It is important to me not only for safeguarding the health and integrity of Mother Nature’s ocean, but to foster stewardship and hope for the future generations that will be in our positions some day. That day always comes sooner than later, so it is crucial that we showcase positive examples for younger generations and to have them involved as well so that they form their own opinions and connections with Mother Nature early on. This ensues more care, thoughtfulness, and a genuine love to upkeep the environment that can be passed along.
What is the most important thing you tell others about Surfrider?
The most important thing I would tell others about Surfrider is to get engaged with your local nonprofit organizations, understand the strength and innovation of grassroots efforts, knowing you truly do make a difference, keeping an open mind and heart. Be confident in knowing that the hard work you put in now paves the way for a better and more colorful future for future generations so they may bear witness to a beautiful and healthy world.
Thanks so much for your time Ayanna! Anything else you’d like to add?
In closing, “Know that you are amazing, lovely, and are a true gift born into this wondrous world. Never let your light dim, fight for what you are passionate about, connect and grow with others by your side, and know that your rainbow will always come even through all the rain.”