From Travel With Purpose to Community With Impact

In 2016, Changing Tides was featured in SURFER Magazine for its early work exploring what it meant for surfers to travel with purpose. The foundation focused on engaging respectfully with coastal communities and supporting local efforts through clean water initiatives and partnerships rooted in listening first. That moment captured Changing Tides’ original question: How can surfers give back to the places that give us so much? (SURFER Magazine, 2016)

One of the initiatives highlighted during that era was the North Shore Community Compost Movement, a locally rooted program addressing food waste and sustainability on Oʻahu’s North Shore. As the program matured, Changing Tides intentionally transitioned leadership, selling the initiative to a group of North Shore–based women who continue to operate and steward the program today. This shift reflected an early commitment to local ownership, long-term sustainability, and trusting communities to lead their own solutions.

Nearly a decade later, that same question continues to guide the work, though the answer has evolved.

Through years of experience, Changing Tides learned that meaningful impact does not come from one-off trips or short-term engagement alone. It grows through consistency, trust, and long-term investment in people. Across communities and programs, one truth became clear: when girls and young women are supported, entire communities grow stronger.

What began as surf-based service work expanded as the organization witnessed a recurring pattern. Girls were often excluded from ocean access, leadership opportunities, and decision-making spaces. Changing Tides recognized that empowerment goes beyond providing access to waves. It means creating environments where girls can build confidence, form supportive relationships, and see themselves as capable leaders.

Today, Changing Tides’ updated strategy centers women and girls through sustained, community-rooted mentorship. Programs emphasize continuity, relationship-building, and holistic support through surf and skate mentorship, education, and community connection. The goal is not just participation, but long-term growth that extends beyond the beach and into everyday life.

International partnerships remain an important part of this work and are intentionally guided by local organizations and voices. This approach ensures cultural relevance, shared ownership, and lasting impact. Changing Tides continues to prioritize listening, collaboration, and trust over quick solutions.

What started as an invitation to travel with purpose has grown into a commitment to build community with care. The work is no longer defined by destinations, but by how we show up for one another, for women and girls, and for the next generation shaping the future of surf culture and community leadership.