Maya Gabeira
“Life is challenging, and sometimes painful, but it’s our actions and thoughts that will define our existence. ”
Maya is a seasoned big wave surfer who embraces challenges head on. Holding the world record for the largest wave ever surfed by a woman, she has lived boldly on and off the board – confronting fear, welcoming growth, and prioritizing purpose over comfort. Through her new book Beyond the Board, readers will get a chance to look beneath the surface, learning about the adversities and little victories that led Maya to reach the top of her game. Perhaps just as notable as her career statistics is her activism; she has helped progress women's visibility in surfing, spoken out in support of ocean conservation efforts, and spotlighted mental health advocacy along the way. This is Maya's story.
Credit: Ana Catarina
K: Tell us about yourself—who are you in your own words?
M: I do many things... multiple sports, I am an activist, author, retired athlete. The answer for who I am is more simple: I am a human being.
K: What inspired you to begin your journey with surfing?
M: The ocean, the challenge, the freedom ... the sensations I got from the sport made me feel very alive.
Credit: Ana Catarina
K: What’s a defining experience that has shaped who you are today?
M: My near death experience was certainly an expansion from my understanding of having a body but not being my body. That experience has shaped me in many ways, expanding me, and led me to more profound changes later in life.
K: What personal accomplishment(s) are you most proud of? Do you have any other goals you are looking to achieve in the future?
M: To live a full life. That's my biggest accomplishment. In the face of fear and pain, I never stopped believing and striving to grow and change. Continue the path of growth and live with purpose.
K: What do you hope readers take away from your new book Beyond the Board?
M: That life is challenging, and sometimes painful, but it’s our actions and thoughts that will define our existence. Above all, we must believe in ourselves and follow our purpose.
K: What advice would you give to young aspiring female surfers?
M: To enjoy the sea and care for it as it was your own home.
K: What does being a woman mean to you?
M: Power.
K: Who is one woman that inspires you and why?
M: Every woman can be inspiring.
Learn more about Maya’s book Beyond the Board
Check out Maya on Instagram
