Maya Gabeira

Maya Gabeira is a pioneering big-wave surfer known for breaking world records and advocating for women in extreme sports. After becoming the first woman to surf big waves in Alaska in 2008, Maya Gabeira established herself as a pioneering force in big-wave surfing. Having pursued a professional career since 2004, including training on world-class waves in Hawaii, Gabeira quickly became known for conquering challenging surf spots such as Mavericks, Waimea, Todos Santos, and Dungeons in South Africa. Her early career also saw her become the first woman to surf California’s Ghost Trees and Tahiti’s Teahupoo.

This monumental achievement, initially met with controversy regarding its recognition, was later chronicled in the critically acclaimed 2022 film ‘Maya and the Wave.’ The documentary delves into her perseverance and the fight for her record’s official acknowledgment, highlighting her enduring impact on the sport. Extending her influence beyond competitive surfing, Gabeira was appointed UNESCO Champion for Ocean and Youth in 2022, leveraging her platform to advocate for ocean conservation and empower young people. After two decades of pioneering contributions to big-wave surfing, Gabeira announced her retirement from professional competition in January 2025, expressing profound pride in her role in transforming the industry for women and inspiring a new generation of female athletes.