Get to Know Waves Lobitos Team Members !

Creating Community Together

We are Henry and Luis, former participants of the Waves programs from the very beginning. Over the past 15 years, we’ve come to truly understand the importance of the organization’s work in the community—whether it’s fostering economic development through surfing or becoming more involved with children and youth in community-building efforts.

One of the clearest examples of the impact Waves has on its community is us. We are now leading the project in a new phase, with fresh methodologies and strategies, but with the same spirit that drew us in as participants, class assistants, workshop leaders, and now as directors of the organization.

We’re deeply committed to this project, with the ultimate goal of keeping our programs running and making a growing positive impact. When the time comes for us to move on, we aim to leave the organization in the hands of a new generation of leaders. We couldn’t do what we do without our amazing teachers and volunteers, and we think they deserve a proper introduction and a huge thank you !

The Faces Behind Waves Lobitos

Co-director

Henry Espinoza

I'm Henry Yayir Espinoza Panta, co-director of Waves Lobitos and a proud native of the beautiful town Lobitos in Peru.

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.

Surf Instructor

Jhonatan Gutierrez

My name is Jhonatan, but the kids know me as “Jhonny.” I’m a surf instructor.

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.

Ambassador

Ana Lucia Prato

My name is Ana Lucia Prato, and I am a self-taught artist inspired by nature.

My name is Ana Lucia Prato, and I am a self-taught artist inspired by nature.
I arrived at Waves Lobitos three years ago with a strong interest in bringing more art to the children of the Lobitos community, and since then, I have been part of the family.
What I enjoy the most at Waves is seeing how, in every activity we do, the children grow, feel like they are part of a community, and have fun doing it.
Continuing to see that in them, and in more and more children, is my biggest motivation to keep being part of this wonderful organization.

Art and Environmental Conservation Teacher

Sonia Machuca

My name is Sonia Elena Machuca Eche. I arrived in Lobitos many years ago, and I am the mother of three children.

My name is Sonia Elena Machuca Eche. I arrived in Lobitos many years ago, and I am the mother of three children.
I still remember when I was given the opportunity to be part of the organization, Waves for Development. I will always be grateful to them for thinking of me and giving me the chance to contribute to the community.
Currently, I feel very proud of how this family has grown and to once again be part of Waves Lobitos.
I work as an art and environmental teacher, and I feel happy teaching children to awaken their creativity, achieve our goals and objectives together, connect with nature, and help us face any difficult situations that may arise. How could I not feel happy in each class when I see their innocence, the joy they give us, their eagerness to keep learning, and so much more.

Co-director

Luis Tinoco

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.

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.

Surf Instructor

Bruno Lazo

My name is Bruno Lazo. I live in Lobitos and have been surfing since I was 10 years old.

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.

Surf Instructor

Kevyn Abad

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.

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.

Gabrielle Valdiviezo Waves' Lobitos team member

Psychologist

Gabrielli Valdiviezo

Hello, I’m Gabrielli Valdiviezo, a Licensed Psychologist. I have been living in the Lobitos district since I was 13 years old, and I am thrilled to be part of the Waves Lobitos family.

Hello, I’m Gabrielli Valdiviezo, a Licensed Psychologist. I have been living in the Lobitos district since I was 13 years old, and I am thrilled to be part of the Waves Lobitos family. My commitment is to use my profession to contribute to the well-being of the children and adolescents in our community by offering them psychological tools such as assertiveness, resilience, and emotional management. I hope these skills will benefit them not only in their academic life but also in their personal and professional growth in the future.

Surf Instructor

Karen Periche

My name is Karen Periche Chavez, and I joined Waves when I was 9 years old, learning surfing, swimming, environmental care, and more.

My name is Karen Periche Chavez, and I am a surf instructor certified by the IPD (Peruvian Institute of Sport).

I joined Waves when I was 9 years old, learning surfing, swimming, environmental care, and more. It was there that I discovered my connection to the sea and my love for the waves.

I became the first woman from Lobitos to practice surfing and to participate in national competitions. Along the way, I discovered my passion for teaching and sharing my knowledge and love for the waves.

For seven years, I was an instructor in Lima at one of Peru’s best surf schools (Olas Peru), and two years ago, I returned to Lobitos to pursue my personal projects. One of these is my surf school exclusively for women ("Women in the Ocean").

I am thrilled to once again be part of the incredible Waves Lobitos team, contributing to the growth of the children in our community and supporting the organization's mission.

Cultural Project Manager

Elena Urday

My name is Elena. I may not be from Lobitos, but like many, this place showed me a more peaceful and friendly way of living, which little by little convinced me to stay here.

Currently, I am developing as a Cultural Manager, and from that branch I contribute with Waves, in the design of training on organizational culture, proposals for improvement of the Art and Conservation project, and project evaluation indicators.

From Waves, from the team and the kids, every day I learn to let myself “flow” more, to be more relaxed, more open to the world, and feel energized.

It's nice to see how everything unfolds with with care, fun and effort, and I'm really happy to be part of it!

Skate Instructor

Freddy Sinarahua

My name is Freddy, and I’ve been living in Lobitos for almost four years.

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.

Come and Meet Waves Lobitos’ Team

Now that you know the team, what’s stopping you from joining us ?

Immerse yourself in our vibrant community and contribute to meaningful projects that empower local people and preserve our beautiful environment. Share your skills, learn new ones, and become part of the Waves Lobitos family. Together, we’ll make a lasting impact while creating unforgettable memories.

Ready to make a difference?

Join Us as a Volunteer
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Want to learn more about us and see another side of our team? Join us on social media: Instagram & Facebook.

Have questions ? Contact us—we’d be delighted to answer them!