Paul Naude, SIMA Environmental Fund President and CEO of Vissla, is more fired up than ever about the need for the industry to support the Waterman’s Weekend this year given the new U.S. administration’s skeptical views about climate change and environmental issues.
We spoke with him about the importance of a healthy ocean environment for the future of the industry and how companies can get involved.
The 28th Annual Waterman’s Weekend will be held August 4-5 at The Ranch at Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, Calif.
Waterman’s Ball attracts more than 600 people annually and is expected to raise close to $400,000 for 19 ocean conservation groups this year.
Honorees include inspirational professional surfer Bethany Hamilton as Waterman of the Year; Parley For The Oceans founder Cyrill Gutsch as Environmentalist of the Year; and all-around surf industry legend Herbie Fletcher with the Lifetime Achievement Award. A Special Recognition Award will also be presented to the International Surfing Association (ISA) for its successful efforts in getting surfing included in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games.
Ticket and sponsorship information can be found here.
Why is it more important than ever for the industry to support the Waterman’s Weekend?
SIMA Environmental Fund President Paul Naude: The SIMA environmental arm has earned a lot of respect in ocean-related environmental circles for our fundraising and action-related efforts to support so many organizations that literally keep all of us, and our customers, in the water.
But this is an ongoing battle.
A healthy, surf-able ocean is the very foundation of our surfing lifestyle and our industry. There are many examples where we as an industry have felt the direct negative effects of environmental disruption to the surfing lifestyle.
Climate change, oil spills, sewage spills, beach access denials, surf break destruction, shark population increases, etc. Based on current government actions in the U.S. and many other parts of the world, we the people are on our own when it comes to environmental preservation.
Now, more than ever, is the time to get involved. Fortunately, we have organizations like the 19 we will support with funding from this year’s Waterman’s that will work tirelessly to make a positive difference.
But they need financial support. I believe that we as an industry can and should do more, not only in terms of philanthropy, but also by pushing to introduce more sustainable products, following more responsible business practices, and by reducing our use of plastics, which is arguably the biggest threat to our oceans.
What would you say to brands that like the idea of supporting the event, but are not this year because of budget cuts during these tough times?
Paul Naude: I appreciate the fact that some companies are facing difficulties based on evolving market conditions, and everyone has to make the decisions they need to make. Some companies may not be in a position to participate with a cash outlay, and I appreciate that many in that position still contribute product items for the auction.
It’s not my place to call anyone out here, but some notable brands have for many years been conspicuous by their absence or lack of meaningful support.
Supporting ocean-related environmental causes is the 401k for the surf industry. Surf companies really have to do something in this regard if they want a healthy platform for ongoing business and sustainability for the next generations.
The SIMA Environmental Fund board of directors has a robust beneficiary application process and does extensive diligence in selecting organizations to support as well as being specific as to the use of grant funds. I encourage people to go online and read up on these organizations. There are many other groups that also do great work that we don’t have the bandwidth to support. I wish we did.
I respect the fact that some companies may choose to support groups independently and outside of Waterman’s. I hope this is happening?  Everyone needs to get involved. We need to do more.
You have been part of the Waterman’s Ball for many years. What are you the most proud of about the fundraiser?
Paul Naude: In spite of this past couple of years being tough, I’m proud of how SIMA has rallied the surf industry to come together for 28 years to raise $8 million for the oceans.
We really have made a positive impact for many beneficiaries. SIMA can be proud, too, of the iconic list of honorees that have been recognized for the mark they have made on surfing and the associated industry.
Why have you wanted the event to remain a neutral setting, meaning not having industry brands take over title sponsorship?
Paul Naude: The Waterman’s Weekend is arguably the most prestigious surf industry fundraising celebration in the world. It’s the one time a year that we, as an industry, can come together with our partners, staff, and families, in a neutral, social setting and enjoy our efforts, make a difference, honor select individuals that have and continue to shape who we are, and remember those who have passed.
Based on the never-ending chatter, I’m sure everyone enjoys the food and wine, the music, the company, and the camaraderie. Why change that by putting a competitive element into the mix?
