November 12 - 23, 2025
Are you a high-school aged surfer with exceptional community leadership and a stellar academic record? Are you interested in traveling to Peru? Join us!
Applications close September 11 at 11:59pm PDT.
The San Diego Diplomacy Council (SDDC), in collaboration with FHI 360 and the U.S. Department of State, proudly launches “Waves for Change: Women’s Leadership through Surfing in Peru.”
Scheduled to take place from November 12 to 23, 2025, this innovative exchange brings together young women from San Diego and Peru to explore the powerful intersection of surfing, cultural understanding, and leadership development.
We are seeking applicants who are:
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Female high school students aged 15 to 18
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U.S. citizens
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Surf with respect, integrity, and a spirit of sportsmanship
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Demonstrate leadership in the lineup and in their community
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Exhibit curiosity about the world and a collaborative mindset
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Have at least one year of surfing experience (recreational or competitive) or coaching youth surf programs
We are seeking coaches who are:
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U.S. citizens
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Reside in San Diego County
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Have surf coaching experience in San Diego County
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Exhibit curiosity about the world and a collaborative mindset
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Have at least one year of surfing experience (recreational or competitive) or coaching youth surf programs
About the Program
November 12: Depart San Diego for Lima, Peru
November 13: Arrive in Lima
November 15: Lima to Lobitos
November 23: Return to San Diego via Lima
This is a fully funded program. Selected participants will receive:
- Roundtrip travel to Peru
- Lodging, meals, and surf training
- Leadership and storytelling workshops
- Cultural excursions and exchange opportunities
Program Highlights
Visit Peru on a unique cross-cultural journey rooted in sport, leadership and cultural understanding. By combining athletic training with immersive workshops and cultural site visits, the program aims to build confidence, resilience, and leadership among participants both in and out of the water.
Working alongside grassroots partners in Peru, participants will surf alongside local youth, share meals with families, engage in storytelling and documentary-making, and explore ancient surf traditions dating back thousands of years. They will also meet with community leaders, including alumni of U.S. Department of State exchange programs, and learn about educational efforts in Peru’s coastal communities.
What to Expect
This is not just a surf trip. Waves for Change blends sport, leadership, and cultural exchange for a transformational experience. Here’s what you can expect:
Surf Training
- Professional coaching in iconic surf destinations: Lobitos and Huanchaco, Peru
- Sessions tailored to beginner and intermediate surfers
- Group yoga, surf competitions, and hands-on instruction from local surf leaders
Leadership & Storytelling
- Leadership development workshops with creative storytelling components
- A collaborative documentary project capturing the voices of participants
- Activities focused on confidence, communication, and team-building
Cultural Immersion
- Shared meals and homestay-style dinners with Peruvian families
- Bonfires, excursions, and storytelling workshops
- Visits to culturally significant sites and historic surf communities using "Caballitos de Totora"
Support & Safety
- 24/7 on-call support
- Mental health and wellness check-ins
- Cultural transition support, interpretation services, and pre-departure assistance
Why Surfing? Why Peru?
Surfing is a global language that fosters courage, mindfulness, and community. In Peru, surfing has ancient roots and a thriving present—and yet opportunities for young women are still limited. By connecting girls from both countries, Waves for Change aims to showcase U.S. leadership in women's sports, create lasting friendships, and celebrate surfing culture.
Questions? Email Jeniffer Espinosa, jeniffer@sandiegodiplomacy.org
