In this episode of the WeSurf Podcast, host Kwame La Bassiere engages with three influential surfers from Liberia—Faith Kulu, Andrew Johnson, and Brahima Gross—who share their personal journeys into surfing, the challenges they face, and their aspirations for the future of surfing in Liberia. The conversation highlights the cultural significance of surfing in Liberia, the barriers they have overcome, and their commitment to community engagement and marine conservation. The surfers also recount memorable moments and embarrassing stories from their surfing experiences, emphasizing the joy and connection to nature that surfing brings.

Links mentioned in Show
Clean Ocean View Liberia - https://www.facebook.com/share/1EGC4KQLs3/?mibextid=wwXIf

Provide the Slide - @providetheslideFundraiser -
https://www.gofundme.com/f/robertsport-surf-club-needs-your-support/cl/sutm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&lang=en_US


Takeaways
Surfing in Liberia is deeply rooted in community and culture.The journey into surfing often begins with simple experiences, like riding on planks.Barriers such as parental concerns and societal perceptions can hinder youth from surfing.Surfing has transformative effects on personal development and self-confidence.The future of surfing in Liberia involves expanding access to more coastal areas.Community engagement is crucial for the growth of surfing culture.Personal stories of triumph and embarrassment are common among surfers.Advocacy for marine conservation is intertwined with the surfing community.The surfers aim to establish a strong national presence in competitions.Liberia offers a unique surfing experience with warm waters and friendly locals 

Sound bites
"My job is better than your job.""Surfing is not only about riding the wave."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Liberian Surf Culture
02:31 Personal Journeys into Surfing
05:22 The Evolution of Surfing in Liberia
08:08 Surfing as a Transformative Experience
10:49 Overcoming Barriers in Surfing
14:03 The Role of Community and Support
16:37 Becoming a Surf Judge and Instructor
19:34 The Future of Surfing in Liberia
30:04 Hunger and Surfing: A Shared Experience
31:59 Challenges in Surfing Competitions
35:30 Support and Growth in Surfing Community
36:27 Judging and Certification in Surfing
38:39 A Perfect Surf Morning in Robertsport
44:50 Defining Moments in Surfing
51:40 Embarrassing Moments in Surfing
53:20 Embarrassing Surfing Moments
57:01 The Future of Surfing in Liberia
01:02:27 Building a Surf Community
01:06:57 Encouraging Tourism and Community Engagement
01:13:12 Final Thoughts and Call to Action