Kauai has long been a cradle for some of the world’s most talented surfers, producing icons like Andy and Bruce Irons and Sebastian Zietz. Gabriela Bryan is the latest to carry that legacy forward. At just 22 years old, Gabriela has already solidified her place on the world stage with a meteoric rise. Her journey has been marked by a stellar 2022 rookie season, where she earned Rookie of the Year honors, and her first Championship Tour (CT) victory at the 2024 Western Australia Margaret River Pro. Known for her dominance at Sunset Beach, Gabriela has claimed multiple Pro Junior and Qualifying Series victories there, setting herself apart as a powerhouse on the waves.
For Gabriela, surfing is deeply tied to her commitment to protecting the ocean. As a dedicated advocate for the World Surf League (WSL) One Ocean initiative, she has embraced her role as a champion for sustainability and conservation. This program, supported by WSL PURE, drives impactful ocean protection projects at every CT event. Gabriela’s involvement highlights her belief that surfers have a responsibility to protect the very ecosystems that fuel their passion. Whether participating in coastal restoration efforts or raising awareness about the importance of eliminating single-use plastics, Gabriela is part of a movement that goes beyond competition.
Through the WSL One Ocean initiative, the WSL has implemented significant conservation efforts to ensure the longevity of the ocean and the sport it supports. Since 2018, the program has achieved measurable success, including the planting of over 480,000 trees to offset carbon emissions, educating more than 41,000 youth on cultural and environmental stewardship, and restoring nearly 500,000 hectares of critical coastal ecosystems. These efforts have also reduced WSL event waste by 70% and cut carbon emissions by 49%. Gabriela’s alignment with these initiatives highlights her dedication to preserving the natural world, not just as a competitor, but as a steward for the future.
Gabriela’s commitment reflects the initiative’s mission to protect the ocean, ensuring the future of surfing for those who come after her. Whether she’s competing in world-class heats or championing sustainability causes, Gabriela embodies what it means to be a modern surfer—one who balances competition with a sense of responsibility for the planet.
