My journey to Lobitos has truly been an eye opening experience. Over the last couple of weeks, I have gained a sense of belonging here within the WAVES crew. I feel inspired and motivated by amazing individuals, both volunteers and locals of Lobitos. From helping with the mirco-finance loan program (Concrete Floor Projects), teaching daily English classes, and helping with many environmental / greenhouse projects for sustainable health and basic needs improvements, I feel like every contribution can genuinely help.
My favorite part of this journey was knowing that the local kids would continue to work within WAVES in some way, either within the surf shop / board repairs / photography or surf lessons. One person can make a difference and Waves facilitates this by providing opportunity for locals to have a better life – full of hope for them and their families. I love the fact that changing one life can open doors for many others. This is the main reason I wanted to come to Peru – to help facilitate change. During my time here, I saw Waves micro-finance projects provide basic needs to a variety of families, including providing a wheelchair to a man who desperately needed one for survival and building two concrete floors for a family who lacked such a basic necessity for a more healthy life.
Another reason I chose to work with waves was to learn to surf. I loved getting up early to surf then coming back having breakfast with everyone before starting the day. Waves provides a comfortable “family” vibe where volunteers, staff and locals join forces to aid. I open heartedly invested my energy and resources to help drive the WAVES motto and I truly believe that if you are interested in surfing, living with the locals and being inspired by similar minded individuals, then Lobitos and Waves would be a great place for you. I hope to return one day!
By Steph Vrantsis
