In a time of global shifts towards increased accountability, diversity, and inclusion, it is the responsibility of Billabong Women’s to further grow the Know the Feeling platform from which we can highlight and celebrate diverse stories within women’s surfing. We are determined to lead and influence the charge to create a better industry and culture that encourages, recognizes, and supports female surf communities from all corners of the world. Our commitment to the growth and evolution of our Know the Feeling franchise illustrates our intention and creative approach to doing just that. In continuation of Billabong’s series ‘Know the Feeling’ pro surfer Laura Enever travels around the world in search of progressive females making change within their local communities. This series depicts a powerful message of human connection and female empowerment through the sport of surfing. With the aim to grow awareness, celebrate diversity, and encourage women in surfing.

São Tomé is a place that surprises you. Sometimes, it challenges you. Mostly though, it charms you. The friendly faces that appeared to cheer on every playful surf, the meals we shared, and the homes we were welcomed into—each of these moments added to the joy of experiencing firsthand, a blossoming surf community and culture. The progression here is tangible, fueled by access and efforts from organizations like SOMA, and the determination and sheer will of young girls like Maura, Mari Lu, and all the other women who have stepped outside of tradition in search of something more, of something new. There’s an energy and wonder to see surfing again for the first time through the eyes of someone who had never imagined they would feel such a thing—and leaving São Tomé, that’s what we’ll carry with us the most.