Get to Know Waves Lobitos Team Members !

I'm Henry Yayir Espinoza Panta, co-director of Waves Lobitos and a proud native of the beautiful town Lobitos in Peru. Since the age of 13, surfing has been my passion and a journey of growth and self-discovery. I learned to surf, swim, and most importantly, build confidence in the water.

My connection with the ocean also led me to discover my passion for photography. In 2010, I participated in a photography course provided by the NGO Waves For Development, which allowed me to capture the stunning landscapes and waves of my region.

Now, as a Surf Therapy Instructor and Director of Waves Lobitos, I aim to share that same growth and confidence with local youth. Our non-profit organization promotes well-being and integral development of children and youth through surfing and education, focusing on values like resilience, confidence, and connection with nature.

Throughout my journey, I've had opportunities to showcase my photographs in events like "Cadena de Oro Negro" in Switzerland and "Lobitos Surfing and Colors" in a local restaurant. My photography workshop has enabled children to discover their own artistic expression.

At Waves Lobitos, we strive to provide opportunities and tools for youth to grow and thrive. Join our mission and together we can make a difference in the lives of the young people of Lobitos.

My name is Jhonatan, but the kids know me as “Jhonny.” I’m a surf instructor.
I arrived in Lobitos several years ago, and I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of Waves Lobitos up close. I achieved my dream of becoming part of this great organization, and it’s truly incredible to contribute to the community through surf lessons with respect and solidarity.
Since then, I’ve enjoyed every class, and it’s rewarding to watch the children progress, from when they first arrive to when they become young adults. This allows them to develop skills that help them not only in the world of surfing but in life.
It fills me with happiness to see how volunteers become part of the community and touch the hearts of the children, becoming good guides and friends, while opening up new cultural horizons and opportunities for them.
We are the Waves Lobitos surf family.

My name is Luis. I was born in Lobitos, I'm 33 years old, and the first time I came into contact with a surfboard was when I was 17, in the surf workshops of Waves for Development.
Over the years, I have participated in many activities and other workshops, and many of the things I do now I have learned through Waves, such as graphic design and audiovisual production, which has increased my affection for this organization.
Currently, I have the wonderful opportunity to be part of the new Waves Lobitos team as co-director, performing administrative roles and managing fundraising to carry out our programs.
Seeing that we can contribute to the development of the boys and girls in our community motivates me to set more goals that can generate the positive impact we all hope for.

My name is Bruno Lazo. I live in Lobitos and have been surfing since I was 10 years old. From a young age, I've been able to appreciate the great contribution of Waves Lobitos to the community through its various programs, providing opportunities for everyone.
I remember that in my early days, I would always see Henry excelling in the water, and it motivated me to take my surfing to the next level. I believe that motivation is what makes you evolve, and just as he did with me, now I want to do the same with the children of Lobitos.
Currently, I am part of this great team. It makes me very happy to share moments in the sea with incredible people, as well as to contribute to the Lobitos community through surf classes, which is an amazing sport focused on health and well-being. It connects you with nature and teaches you to remain calm in very difficult situations. I am very happy to see how the children grow and evolve.

Hi, my name is Kevyn Abad, and I’m 18 years old. My life changed when I was 10 years old, when I started participating in Waves Lobitos’ workshops. From the very first day, I loved being able to spend time with my friends and with nature, while also learning something new every day.
At 15, I began teaching surf lessons thanks to one of my instructors, Jhonatan Gutiérrez, who gave me the opportunity to be his assistant. It was an incredible experience, full of learning.
Now, I’m part of the Waves Lobitos family as a surf instructor, and I’m very grateful to the team for giving me this opportunity—it made one of my goals come true. I get to work in my favorite place, the sea, with the best companions.
It makes me very happy to see the boys and girls learning and having fun in the activities we do. I believe we never stop learning new things.

My name is Freddy, and I’ve been living in Lobitos for almost four years.
I am currently part of the Waves Lobitos team, and I’m very happy to share moments at the skatepark with such a close-knit group. I’m also thrilled to contribute to the Lobitos community through skateboarding, a sport that has gained a lot of popularity recently thanks to the Olympics, but which truly teaches us resilience in all aspects of daily life.

I hope to not only contribute my more than 20 years of experience to this community, but also to grow together and provide more opportunities for all participants.