Despite facing the challenges of polio, Zubeida has embraced the waves, finding strength, peace, and empowerment with every ride. Her next adventure? Riding the waves at the upcoming SA Para Surfing Championships in Durban.
Port Shepstone, South Africa (10 April 2025) – For Zubeida Bux, the ocean represents unparalleled freedom. When she is out on her surfboard, one with the sea, nothing else matters.
It’s from this deep love for the waves that the Port Shepstone para-surfer has been able to soar to greater heights as she gears up to conquer the curl in the upcoming SA Para Surfing Championships taking place in Durban on April 12 and 13.
We got to chat with this incredible athlete who has defied great odds, including polio, just before she dives into one of the most exciting competitions of the year.
Despite being in a wheelchair, Zubeida has always loved the ocean and water sports. It’s where she feels most alive, and so taking up surfing made perfect sense when the opportunity arose.
“I first got introduced to surfing when I attended a para surfing event, and from that moment, I was hooked. The energy, the connection with the ocean, and seeing others push boundaries really inspired me to try it myself,” Zubeida shares.
“Surfing gives me a sense of strength, peace, and connection. It’s empowering, challenging, and healing all at once.”
A pivotal moment for the 56-year-old thrill seeker was one that she describes as changing her life, four years ago.
“I was introduced to Made for More, and that day marked my first real step into the ocean as a para surfer. It felt like I was being welcomed into God’s massive playground—the ocean.
“It was overwhelming, freeing, and deeply spiritual. That experience opened a whole new world for me, and I haven’t looked back since,” Zubeida reflects.
Now, as she looks forward to the championships ahead, Zubeida is excited to enjoy the energy and endorphins leading up to this weekend’s surfing event.
“It’s exciting to see surfers from all over the country come together, and I’m looking forward to being part of that amazing atmosphere at Durban’s New Pier South Beach.”
And regardless of the outcome:
“My hope is to always keep surfing—it brings me so much joy and keeps me going,” Zubeida shares.
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