From beginner to groundbreaking leader, Trystan Viaene is reshaping South African waveski surfing through passion, professionalism, and purpose.
East London, South Africa (28 November 2025) – Waveski surfing may be rooted in adrenaline, competition and ocean skill, but at the heart of its latest chapter lies leadership with purpose. And few embody that spirit more than Trystan Viaene, a woman who elevated the sport.
What started as a simple desire to help local surfers in her hometown of East London has grown into one of the most inspiring leadership journeys in South African sport. She entered Waveski through passion, professionalism and a genuine commitment to serve others.
Today, she holds two major leadership positions on the national and international stage. She is the first woman in 50 years to chair the South African Waveski Surfing Association (SAWSA), and serving as Treasurer for the World Waveski Surfing Association (WWSA).
“Our roles are not paid, there’s no financial benefit. It’s actually quite the opposite. But I love working with my amazing team, here in South Africa and internationally.”
Trystan’s path into waveski surfing is anything but ordinary. She knew nothing about the sport when she first arrived on the beach. Her background in Public Relations, event management and a passion for community upliftment, helped find her place behind the scenes long before she ever thought of taking on leadership.
Her voluntary work at club level turned into national influence and eventually, global recognition. Today, she is widely credited for bringing a fresh, structured, and professional approach to waveski administration.
One of her most remarkable achievements came when she personally travelled to the United States to secure the bid for South Africa to host the 2024 World Waveski Surfing Titles at Nahoon Reef. The proposal won by a landslide. What followed was an event that many now call the most professionally executed World Titles in modern history.
The competition was sold-out, featured professional live streaming, strong infrastructure, seamless coordination and injected several million rands into East London’s local economy.
Under her leadership the South African Waveski Surfing Association has undergone significant transformation. From being registered formally as a non-profit organisation to secured sponsorships and partnerships.
“It’s a male-dominated sport, and there have been challenges. But with good governance, fairness, and teamwork, we’re building something stronger, for everyone.”
by 