About Waves of Opportunity Foundation
Empowering Lives, Creating Opportunities
Waves of Opportunity Foundation empowers historically excluded youth through ocean exploration, blending blue econcomy education with hands-on surfing experiences to inspire environmental stewardship. Our location offers unique access to the ocean, where experiential learning through surfing and exploration fosters an appreciation for marine ecosystems. We actively track participant numbers, demographic diversity, and shifts in environmental attitudes, striving to inspire the next generation of marine science leaders. Through various initiatives and fundraising efforts, we aim to make a lasting impact and improve the lives of those we serve. Join us in our journey to make a difference and be part of a community that cares.
Meet Our Team
Get to know the passionate individuals who are the driving force behind our foundation. Our team is committed to our cause and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
Vanessa De La Garza
Founder
With a Master’s in Environmental Science and a BA in Marine Biology, Vanesa De La Garza is passionate about inspiring underserved youth to pursue science and environmental stewardship. She brings hands-on research experience from her undergraduate studies in Australia, where she worked in a coral reef research laboratory conducting her own experiments and supporting restoration efforts. After graduating, she further honed her expertise at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, contributing to coral reef restoration projects in Hawaii.
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As an avid surfer, free diver, and spearfisher, Vanesa combines her love for the ocean with advocacy for inclusive communities. As an administrator for the Latinx Surf Club, she fosters connection and empowerment through ocean-based activities. Her dedication to marine conservation led her to create Waves of Opportunity, a program that inspires youth to explore science and environmentalism through ocean education and activities.
Vanessa Grace Rolon
Surf Program Director
With 22 years of surfing experience, 17 years as an educator, and a certification as a surf instructor, Vanessa Rolon combines her passion for teaching and surfing to inspire and empower students. As the founder of the Latinx Surf Club and of the Women Who Surf group, a 37,000-strong community, she champions inclusivity and connection to the ocean.
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Vanessa’s approach emphasizes skill-building, confidence, and respect for the environment, making surfing accessible and transformative for all, especially underrepresented communities. Her work aligns with the Waves of Opportunity Foundation mission to create opportunities and foster growth through the power of the ocean.