Johanne’s journey from a landlocked region in central France to becoming one of the world’s most accomplished surfers is a story of determination, resilience, and passion. After moving to Reunion Island at a young age, Johanne discovered surfing at seven, following her father into the waves. It quickly became more than a hobby, with her talent propelling her to dominate Europe’s junior ranks.
Despite setbacks, including the loss of her main sponsor in 2013, Johanne’s determination shone through as she crowdfunded her way to the Championship Tour (CT), where she was named Rookie of the Year in 2014. Since then, she’s amassed six CT wins and earned a reputation for her powerful backhand and fearless approach to challenging conditions, including earning a Bronze medal for Team France at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Beyond her competitive accomplishments, Johanne is passionate about sharing her love for surfing and her commitment to ocean conservation. She’s not only a mentor to aspiring surfers but also an advocate for teaching sustainable practices in and out of the water. Johanne runs training camps with fellow Olympic and professional athletes, where she shares her expertise and fosters respect for the marine environment. For her, surfing is just as much a sport as it is a way to connect with the ocean and inspire others to care for it.
Johanne’s legacy extends far beyond her competitive achievements. By mentoring young women and championing conservation in her daily actions, she’s shaping a future where the next generation of surfers sees protecting the ocean as integral to their passion. Balancing sportsmanship and advocacy, Johanne continues to lead by example, proving that greatness in the water can be matched by the impact on the land.
