Why and when did you get involved with the Surfrider Foundation?

I got involved with Surfrider through my friend and Surfrider ambassador, Meg Haywood Sullivan, and started working right away on their Clean Border Water Now campaign in San Diego.
Surfrider is an organization that a lot of friends collaborate with and that I’ve always followed closely. It has created a wonderful community here in California for ocean lovers and people that care about the environment.

What inspires you to be active in ocean conservation?

Scuba diving is a big passion of mine. And of course, with that comes the understanding for reef and marine conservancy. It’s been quite devastating to see so many ecosystems collapsing in the past years due to commercial fishing, rising water temperatures, and plastic and chemical pollution. There isn't much time left for us to reverse that. There’s so much beauty and life already lost. Also, after living in Los Angeles for almost 20 years and surfing California beaches for a while, you want the ocean in your back yard to be safe and clean. It should be every citizen’s right.

What has been the highlight of your experiences related to protection of the ocean and coasts?

Realizing that community work, political engagement, calling your representatives, making noise and protesting for what matters to us can really make a difference.

What is the most important thing you tell others about protecting the ocean, waves and beaches?

Small deeds go a long way, such as reducing plastic in every household, participating in beach cleanups and engaging in only purchasing items manufactured in an earth-friendly manner.
Of course, it's also education for the little ones. The young generations carry such a strong message and will for this planet.