Meet your co-hosts/founders
Hi, I’m Vanessa, co-host/founder of Sea Her Rise. At 54, I fully embrace the philosophy that the best surfer is the one having the most fun—and it’s this mindset that has kept me stoked since I first started surfing 26 years ago. I was a co-founder of Surfing Mums when I first had children and then I co-founded the Byron Bay Surf Festival to bring together a community of surfers and now we are doing it with Sea Her Rise for women in midlife!
I bring a deep love for the ocean and a wide range of experience to our community, including a Silver Medallion in Surf Lifesaving, Advanced Oxygen Advantage instructor training, and qualifications as a yoga and meditation coach. I also hold a Level 1 certification in Ocean Therapy Practitioner Certification and recently completed my Wave 1 Freediving course, which beautifully complements my passion for all things ocean.
My aim is to create a space where women can feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow, heal, and have fun in the water.
Hi, I’m Sherri, your co-host/founder at Sea Her Rise. I’m 46 years young and learned to surf at 42, so I truly understand what it feels like to start surfing later in life. I know the fears, the excitement, the wobbly beginnings, and the incredible sense of achievement that comes with every small win. My goal is to create a supportive, empowering space for women —a space where you feel seen, encouraged, and confident as you progress at your own pace. I’m here to help you feel comfortable in the water, celebrate your growth, be your biggest cheerleader in the line-up and fall in love with surfing the way I did.
I’m currently qualifying to become a surf coach, surf apnea coach, am a Wave 1 Free Diver and I’m a bronze medallion surf lifesaver—so supporting women in the water is something I’m deeply committed to.
Why choose Sea Her Rise?
Sea Her Rise is a women’s surf community created to support, empower, and uplift women who are learning to surf or wanting to progress with more confidence. Whether you’re stepping on a board for the first time, building consistency after a few early sessions, or wanting to build on your skills and progress steadily into the intermediate level, our community days and surf retreats offer a safe, encouraging space to learn, grow, and connect. Join us to experience real progression, genuine community, and the joy of rising together in and out of the water.
Why 35+ years?
Learning to surf with women your own age—especially 35+—creates a completely different experience in the water. You’re surrounded by women who understand the same fears, goals, body changes, and life stages you’re navigating. There’s no pressure to keep up with younger crowds, no feeling of being “behind,” and no judgement for taking things at your own pace. Instead, you get an encouraging environment where everyone is learning, cheering each other on, and progressing together.
Women 35+ often value community, safety, and confidence-building just as much as wave-catching. Being in a group of peers helps you feel more relaxed, supported, and willing to try things that might feel intimidating otherwise. The result? Faster progression, more fun, and a surfing experience that feels truly empowering rather than overwhelming.