We are proud to have Ambassadors all over North America – ambassadors like Pedro Fernandez, who are not only gifted free surfers and competitors, but also environmental advocates and leaders within their communities. Fernandez, born and raised in the Dominican Republic, has represented his country for over 20 years. He has since transitioned out of competing professionally to become a high-end surf consultant, traveling around the world with his clients in search of the best surf breaks. In his spare time, he works in real estate as an agent, helping people move to this Caribbean paradise.
This fall, Fernandez had the opportunity to show the young surfers of his country a thing or two about not only surfing heats, but a lesson in leadership when he competed in the first Waves of Hope contest, an event designed to bring the best surfers in the country, excited groms, and everyone in between.
This was the first year of the Waves of Hope event, a contest run by Soul Surfers DR, a surf academy foundation committed to empowering youth through the transformative power of surfing. Both the event and the foundation are the creation of Emanuel Knudson, an advocate of Dominican surfing. More than a competition, it sought to inspire the Dominican youth, some of whom are underprivileged. Fernandez saw it as an opportunity to engage the young surfers at his home break.
The contest was held on October 4 and 5 in Encuentro with family fun, beach food, yoga, and pumping surf. Jetty was proud to sponsor the event, sending clothing for nearly all of the competitors.
Fernandez took third place overall. But more importantly, he served as an example of positivity. He spent hours talking with the kids and signed Jetty posters.
“I am deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of surfers in the Dominican Republic. It’s an honor to be a mentor. I want to encourage and support young surfers, inspire them to chase their dreams, build confidence, and become the best they can be both in and out of the water,” said Fernandez.
We understand that some surf communities face different challenges. Jetty is proud to play a small part in events like this where we can partner with great organizations like Soul Surfers DR and support our ambassadors in having a positive impact.
