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our athletes

We’re empowering our athlete's to live their most sustainable lives.

Our sponsored athletes epitomize the fusion of passion and performance, seamlessly integrating our products into their pursuit of sustainable adventure. As they carve through snow or glide atop waves, these athletes serve as ambassadors of innovation, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while showcasing the unparalleled quality and reliability of our gear. Their unwavering commitment to their craft, coupled with the endorsement of our products, not only elevates their own performance but also resonates with enthusiasts worldwide, inspiring a new generation of riders to embrace our brand and its ethos of adventure, resilience, and relentless pursuit of greatness.

Lukhangele Tabata "Luke"

A talented surfer hailing from Mossel Bay, South Africa, and a true powerhouse in the waves. A dedicated member of The Surfer Kids Non-Profit Organization.

For Lukhangele, surfing transcends mere athleticism; it embodies his identity. It serves as a vehicle for growth, gratitude, and self-improvement, shaping his character along the way. Grounded in humility, Lukhangele remains composed, cherishing the freedom and vitality surfing brings into his life. A true embodiment of passion and dedication, Lukhangele Tabata exemplifies the essence of living a fulfilling and authentic life.

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featured athlete
Twiggy Grant Baker
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Jennifer Campbell
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Seth Donald
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Luke Johnson
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Mayah Potgieter
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Angelo Faulkner
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Hannes Hoffman
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Victoria Glenny
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Omar Ngalla
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Luciano Potgieter
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Joshua Middelton
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Andrew Laverge
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Caleb Judd
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Mhlengi Mbutho
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Jason du Preez
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Nicholas Njapha
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Indie Ellerington
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Rudolf Pretorius
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Joshe Faulkner
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Forrest Hair
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Ewan Prinsloo
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Arian Urtaev
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Joshua Jefferis
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Lukhangele Tabata
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Spencer van Zyl
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Ethan van Roon-Gifford
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Sebo Mafuna
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Twiggy Grant Baker

Firewave is proud to collaborate with legendary big wave surfer Grant “Twiggy” Baker — a fearless waterman, three-time WSL Big Wave World Champion, and nine-time XXL Biggest Wave Award winner.

With a surfing journey that spans over four decades, Twiggy has conquered the world’s most powerful waves at spots like Mavericks, Nazaré, and beyond, earning global respect for his skill, grit, and heart.

Known to many as “The General,” Grant is admired not only for his unmatched accomplishments but also for his unshakable values, humility, and purpose-driven life.

When he’s not chasing giant swells, he’s mentoring the next generation of surfers and giving back through his work with LIV Village and Save the Oceans, supporting orphans and protecting the environments he calls home.

As a Firewave ambassador, Twiggy embodies the spirit of adventure, authenticity, and sustainability. Together, we’re riding a wave of change — honouring a legacy, and building the future of surf culture.

Jennifer Campbell

Welcome Jen to Firewave Surf.

Jen is a powerhouse of movement and mastery—an accomplished medical doctor turned elite personal trainer, calisthenics coach, and circus enthusiast.

With a passion for flying trapeze, hand balancing, and world-class calisthenics, she’s currently preparing to compete in the World Calisthenics Championship 2025 while exploring the globe and pushing boundaries every step of the way.

Firewave Surf is thrilled to welcome Jen to the team of athletes who embody fearlessness, discipline, and raw energy. Her unique blend of science, sport, and art brings a dynamic edge to the brand, and we can’t wait to see what waves she makes—on land, in the air, and beyond.

Seth Donald

Welcome to Firewave Seth Donald, a 19-year-old local from Kommetjie, Cape Town, South Africa, is a dedicated competitive climber.

Having represented South Africa on the international stage at the Africa Cup, the journey continues with upcoming competitions at the European Cups in Italy and Switzerland, specializing in lead climbing.

Beyond the competitive circuit, the mountains become a second home—taking on the most challenging routes at crags across South Africa or testing strength and technique on the boulders of Rocklands and Silvermine in Cape Town.

With a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors, every climb is not just a test of skill but a celebration of the wild landscapes that shape the sport.

Luke Johnson

Welcome to Firewave.

Meet Luke, a dedicated boxing champion with an unwavering ambition to be the best in the ring.

As a strong and independent young man, Luke embodies discipline and passion in every aspect of his boxing career.

His love for the outdoors fuels his energetic spirit, and he thrives on building connections with people, engaging in conversations, and creating lasting friendships

Mayah Potgieter

Meet Mayah Potgieter, affectionately known as “Smurf.”

A passionate surfer since 2016, Mayah began her journey under the expert guidance of Heather Clark, who continues to coach her today. Within just a year, she was already making waves in various competitions, fueled by the unwavering support of her family, friends, sponsors, and the vibrant surfing community.

Mayah has made her mark in district competitions, winning the KZN Champs title five times, and has been a regular participant at the South African Surfing Champs since 2018. Her impressive performance in 2022 saw her clinch the under-16 category title, consistently reaching the finals in other years as well.

A standout moment in her career was her selection for the South African team, where she competed in El Salvador, finishing in the top 55 out of 220 surfers in her division. With her dedication and talent, Mayah is set to ride the waves of success for years to come!

Angelo Faulkner

Introducing Angelo Faulkner, the newest athlete to join the Firewave.surf team.

Hailing from Jeffreys Bay, Angelo is a 23-year-old South African surfing champion with an impressive track record.

He has proudly represented South Africa at the ISA World Games on multiple occasions and has secured victories in prestigious competitions such as the Billabong Series and the Quiksilver King of the Groms.

With his exceptional talent and competitive spirit, Angelo brings a wealth of experience and success to the Firewave.surf family. Welcome, Angelo!

Hannes Hoffman

We are proud to introduce Hannes Hoffman, whose passion for surfing began at the tender age of 10.

Representing his local district, Ugu, Hannes has showcased his talent in various competitions, including the Grom Games at 12.

For Hannes, surfing transcends being a mere sport; it serves as his therapy, his escape, and his sense of purpose.

In the water, surfing has imparted to him discipline, perseverance, and resilience.

Beyond the waves, it has equipped him to tackle life’s challenges, maintain focus, and stay grounded.

His debut at the SA Junior Champs and semi-final finish at the KZN Champs in 2022 were significant achievements.

Nonetheless, it is the journey, not just the triumphs, that has molded him into the individual he is today.

Victoria Glenny

Victoria Glenny, a 14-year-old from Jeffreys Bay, has joined the Firewave family with an impressive track record.

From 2022 to 2024, she served as the NMBS representative at the SA Juniors Championships, showcasing her dedication and leadership.

Victoria is a graceful shortboarder, known for her unique style and flair on the waves. As a true leader within her provincial team, she is sure to turn heads with her exceptional talent and competitive spirit.

Welcome to the Firewave family, Victoria! We are thrilled to have you on board and can’t wait to see what the future holds for this rising star.

Omar Ngalla

We are excited to introduce our newest sponsored surfer, Omar Ngalla Thindoume from Senegal.

With his graceful art of surfing, powerful style, and unwavering determination, Omar is set to make a significant impact in the world of surfing.

Keep an eye on this rising star, as he possesses all the qualities of a future champion. Welcome to the Firewave family, Omar!

Luciano Potgieter

Luciano Potgieter is a talented surfer from South Africa who is passionate about helping kids learn how to surf through his work at the Wavepoint Foundation.

With a strong desire to compete in the QS and eventually become a professional surfer, Luciano is dedicated to honing his skills and reaching new heights in the sport.

Inspired by his mother, a former South African surfer, Luciano is determined to fulfill her legacy and make a name for himself in the surfing world.

With the support of Firewave.surf, the leading eco sustainable surf brand, Luciano is poised to achieve his dreams and make a splash in the surfing community.

Joshua Middelton

Meet Josh Middleton, the newest member of the Firewave family!

Since the age of 12, surfing has been Josh’s passion, guiding him away from bad choices and towards his dream of going pro in the WSL.

Known for his aggressive and powerful maneuvers, Josh is dedicated to pushing his limits with each session on his performance board.

A Cape Town native now residing in Jefferys Bay, Josh doesn’t let his condition hold him back from standing out in the surf.

With a love for fitness, nature, and music, Josh is determined to make his mark on the international surfing scene. Welcome aboard, Josh!

Andrew Laverge

Welcome Andrew Laverge to the Firewave.surf team!

Originally from Johannesburg and now residing in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape, Andrew is a 23-year-old surfer with a competitive edge.

With a background in surfing competitions and a current role as a surf coach at Shaka Surf School, Andrew is passionate about sharing the stoke of surfing and raising awareness for our beautiful ocean.

As a Level 1 ISA surf instructor with plans to achieve Level 2, Andrew brings his expertise and enthusiasm to the waves.

We are excited to have Andrew on board with us at Firewave.surf!

Caleb Judd

Introducing Caleb Judd, one of our talented new athletes at Firewave.surf!

At just 12 years old, Caleb is a grom surfer hailing from South Africa.

His deep connection to the ocean started at a young age, and by 7, he discovered his passion for surfing.

From that moment on, Caleb’s love for waves and barrels has only grown stronger.

Fearless in the water, he doesn’t shy away from any wave, even tackling storm waves that are four times overhead.

Caleb’s favorite surf spots include the local beaches in PE, as well as renowned locations in J-bay, Cape St Francis, and Port Alfred.

With surfing as his life’s passion, Caleb would happily spend every minute of the day in the ocean if he could. Welcome to the Firewave team, Caleb!

Mhlengi Mbutho

I was down at the beach and stoked to see the other guys surfing and told them I want to learn how to surf. I couldn’t even swim! In 2007 my now lifeguard senior taught me how to swim first and then introduced me to surfing.

I love surfing, it’s fun to always try new stuff and it keeps me motivated every day. I also want to share this fun with others so my people aren’t afraid of the ocean anymore but also have fun.

Yoh, surfing! It’s made me better. Growing up I saw youngsters get into trouble and surfing took me away from that. It makes me a better person! It’s how I express myself. Excited, happy, enjoyable. My mission as both a surfer and a lifeguard is to teach others to enjoy this thing! I also love taking pictures and videos of my fellow surfers. To see them on good waves makes so happy!

I try to focus during my heats; my main goal is to have fun but also to win. And if that doesn’t work I go back and train and try again. When I do surf, even when the conditions are bad, I get stoked!

Being new to the team I am very excited for what is to come and am proudly wearing the gear. I’m looking forward to try and surf a more nature friendly board by firewave for example.

Jason du Preez

Firewave.surf is thrilled to introduce Jason du Preez, our newest team member, to the surfing community. From the vibrant waters of Durban, Jason’s surfing journey began at the youthful age of 14, propelling him into the exhilarating world of wave-riding. Now, at 18, Jason stands ready to carve his path in the surfing realm.

With roots in the coastal paradise of Durban, Jason’s passion for surfing runs deep. Embracing the waves of his South Coast home in Ramsgate, KZN, Jason’s surfing spirit is defined by his dedication to the sport and his hunger for new challenges. From local competitions to prestigious events like the Ripcurl Grom Search Comps and the Open Men’s SA Championships, Jason’s surfing prowess shines brightly on the waves.

Jason’s commitment to environmental awareness and sustainable surfing practices aligns perfectly with Firewave.surf’s mission. As we welcome Jason to our team, we look forward to partnering with him to promote a greener, more eco-conscious surfing lifestyle for the future.

Nicholas Njapha

Nick, a dynamic and energetic surfer, brings a powerful presence to the waves. At 30 years old, he has dedicated nearly two decades to surfing, mastering his craft and sharing his passion with others.

Currently managing the Umzumbe surf camp, Nick’s extensive experience in surfing spans 19 years. His impressive skills have garnered recognition, including a feature in the Afrosurf book and modeling shoots for Mami Wata and FloJos sandals. Notably, Nick has also been part of a short film showcased at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.

Beyond his surfing accomplishments, Nick is a surf instructor, finding joy in teaching others to surf and witnessing the happiness when they catch their first wave.

Despite facing two significant surfing accidents resulting in the loss of his spleen and kidney, Nick’s resilience and determination have never wavered, propelling him back into the water with unwavering passion.

While Nick enjoys competition, his true love lies in the thrill of being barreled. His ultimate goal is to inspire fellow African surfers to embrace the ocean and pursue their surfing dreams. Nick’s journey exemplifies courage, perseverance, and a profound love for the sport, making him
a valuable addition to the Firewave.surf team. His dedication to surfing and his inspirational spirit promise to leave a lasting impact on the surfing community.

Indie Ellerington

Indie, a 14-year-old prodigy hailing from Switzerland, brings a blend of power, grace, and unwavering determination to the waves.

As a young surfer who travels the world with his family, Indie is no stranger to the waters of Hawaii and Indonesia, honing his skills in some of the world’s most iconic surf spots.

At Firewave.surf, we are thrilled to welcome Indie to our team. With a contagious smile and a passion for surfing that radiates through his every wave, Indie embodies the spirit of joy and determination that defines our surfing community. We look forward to supporting Indie on his surfing journey and are excited to witness his growth and success in the world of surfing.

A warm and enthusiastic welcome to Indie, our first surfer from Switzerland, at Firewave.surf!

Rudolf Pretorius

A huge welcome to Rudolf Pretorius, also known as Bizkit. Rudolf is an entrepreneur and professional freestyle motocross rider from George, Western Cape, South Africa. He dedicated his life to pursuing his passion for riding among the world’s best athletes. When Rudolf is not tearing up the FMX scene, he enjoys living an outdoor life and indulging in extreme sports. Paragliding is one of his favorite activities, and he is currently gearing up for the 2025 South African Rally Championships. As part of Freestyle Productions, Rudolf has four more shows lined up for this year, and he’s thrilled to be preparing for the prestigious King of The Whip competition in November. In the upcoming weeks, Rudolf is also planning to execute the daring Backflip to dirt maneuver.

Joshe Faulkner

Firewave.surf proudly welcomes Joshe Faulkner as his sponsor. Emerging from the Pellsrus township in Jeffreys Bay, Joshe is a goofy-footed surfer with extraordinary talent and a remarkable story. Surfing became Joshe’s saving grace, steering him away from potential pitfalls and towards a path of success.

In 2019, Joshe claimed victory in his first Qualifying Series event at the Nelson Mandela Bay Surf Pro and also secured the title of South African Surfing Champion. His dynamic and high-flying aerial style caught the eye of the surfing world during his debut on the Challenger Series in 2022, showcasing his prowess and determination to make a mark in the sport.

Joshe Faulkner’s journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of surfing, and Firewave.surf is honored to support him on his remarkable journey.

Forrest Hair

Introducing Forrest Hair, the wave-taming, contest-dominating dynamo from the picturesque Wilderness in the Garden Route. With a passion for surfing that flows through his veins since the tender age of 13, Forest has been making waves in the local and national surf scene.

Known for his exquisite style and fearless approach, Forest has claimed victory in prestigious competitions like the Vice Bay quad, showcasing his skills alongside South Africa’s top surfers.

Ewan Prinsloo

Introducing Ewan Prinsloo, the newest sensation to join the Firewave.surf family. Hailing from the renowned surf haven of Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, this 17-year-old prodigy embodies the perfect combination of talent, humility, and pure stoke.

Arian Urtaev

We’re thrilled to welcome Arian Urtaev to the Firewave family!

Our team is made up of passionate and amazing athletes who continually push the limits.

Arian is a renowned horse stuntman with deep roots as a Russian Cossack, and he’s a valuable new addition to the team.

Joshua Jefferis

Joshua Jefferis, a 16-year-old surfing prodigy, is making waves in the surfing community with his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to his craft. Joshua’s distinctive style is defined by his love for executing powerful and precise turns along the wave’s face, demonstrating a deep connection with the ocean and a passion for pushing his limits.

His approach emphasizes finesse, control, and a deep understanding of the water, showcasing a level of maturity and commitment well beyond his years.

Lukhangele Tabata

A talented surfer hailing from Mossel Bay, South Africa, and a true powerhouse in the waves. A dedicated member of The Surfer Kids Non-Profit Organization.

For Lukhangele, surfing transcends mere athleticism; it embodies his identity. It serves as a vehicle for growth, gratitude, and self-improvement, shaping his character along the way. Grounded in humility, Lukhangele remains composed, cherishing the freedom and vitality surfing brings into his life. A true embodiment of passion and dedication, Lukhangele Tabata exemplifies the essence of living a fulfilling and authentic life.

Spencer van Zyl

Spencer, aged 11, excels in cycling with just 2 years of experience since August 2022. His skill, dedication, and passion for the sport shine through in his daily pursuits. Training five times a week, he focuses on skill development, track training, and maintaining his endurance and fitness levels. Spencer’s unwavering motivation has led to numerous podium finishes in races and earned him the opportunity to compete in championships across South Africa. In 2023, his versatility and talent have seen him podium in various categories, including road cycling, XCO, WC School XCO, XCM, Enduro, and downhill events.

Ethan van Roon-Gifford

Introducing our newest athlete, a force to be reckoned with in the world of mountain biking and downhill biking. His unwavering determination and indomitable spirit align perfectly with the ethos of Firewave.surf.

With a profound sense of purpose and a relentless work ethic, he epitomizes what it means to chase his dreams. His riding skills are nothing short of extraordinary, earning him the reputation of riding like a demon on the trails. A true embodiment of the Firewave spirit.

Sebo Mafuna

Sebo Mafuna, hailing from Port St. Johns 2nd beach, is a rising star at Firewave.surf. He started surfing at 14 under Mike Gatchke at Iliza Surfing Academy and later joined Surfers Not Street Children NGO in Durban, reigniting his love for surfing. Sebo actively competes in local events, balances free surfing with contests, and collaborates with surf publications. Notable achievements include featuring in Afro Surf magazine and reaching the quarterfinals at a QS event in Port Alfred after his debut at the SA champs last year. A regular at Durban beachfront, Sebo also shares surf reports and showcases his barista skills. Sebo Mafuna embodies resilience, skill, and dedication in the world of surfing.

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