Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira, 35, who holds the world record for the biggest wave surfed by a woman — 22.4 meters, in 2020 — is the newest Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). Culture), with a focus on promoting the preservation of the oceans and youth.
Maya took over the post this Monday (27th), participating during the first day of the United Nations Ocean Conference, which runs until Friday (1st) in Lisbon.
In the presentation, the surfer made a point of highlighting how the damage to the oceans is increasingly visible. “In 15 years as a professional surfer, I see an increase in plastic everywhere in the world,” she said.
The athlete’s engagement with environmental causes is old. In addition to having already participated in a series of actions to raise awareness of the problem of ocean pollution, the surfer has a strong family history of activism.
Daughter of journalist and former federal deputy Fernando Gabeira, one of the founders of the Green Party, and sustainable fashion designer Yamê Reis, Maya says she grew up hearing about the importance of preserving the planet.
“I think this concern and this subject has always been on the agenda at home. It was what we discussed at dinner. My father has been talking about it since long before I was born,” he said.
With great appeal to the young audience, Maya should use her presence on social networks to promote actions to preserve the seas. Participation in events and podcasts are also planned in the near future.
American actor Jason Momoa, 42, who plays the character Aquaman in the movie, was also at the conference. The Hawaiian, who already works as an activist for environmental causes, was named ambassador for the United Nations Environment Program, with a focus on protecting marine life.
The Planeta em Transe project is supported by the Open Society Foundations.
