Riding the waves of success

Joana Schenker is a name that is synonymous with talent, dedication and community spirit in the world of bodyboarding. 

I meet Joana Schenker in Luz’s pop-up News TV studio on a very wet January day to record another episode of the Talk about Tomorrow podcast. Fortunately, I am with someone who doesn’t mind getting wet! A former world champion bodyboarder, she is currently in the world’s top eight and spends most of her life in the ocean.

We last spoke in 2023 for an article in the September edition. But since then, she has achieved yet another accolade. Portugal Forbes lists her as one of the 40 most influential women in sports.

Joana’s German parents moved to Portugal after falling in love with the Algarve on holiday. They settled here and raised Joana and her three younger sisters on the golden beaches of Vila do Bispo.”Born in 1986 in Portugal, Schenker grew up in the tiny hamlet of Pedralva before it was redeveloped as a tourist village. Back then, it was inhabited by only a few remaining elderly residents along with the Schenker family. 

One of Joana’s earliest memories is attending a small primary school (now closed) in Salema, where her teachers would take the class to the beach for lessons. In these idyllic pre-social media days, it is perhaps unsurprising that Joana discovered her passion for surfing at a young age on the beaches of Sagres and quickly made waves in the sport.

Schenker’s career highlights are impressive. She is a multiple-time national champion in Portugal and has also achieved success on the international stage. In 2017, she claimed the prestigious APB World Tour title, becoming the first Portuguese woman to do so. Known for her stylish and technical riding style, Schenker continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in women’s bodyboarding. Now aged 37, she has consistently been in the top eight since becoming world champion.

But it’s not just about competition for Schenker. She is also deeply committed to giving back to her community. Schenker is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and is actively involved in numerous initiatives to protect the oceans and beaches she loves. She regularly organises beach clean-ups, participates in educational programmes, and works with local organisations to raise awareness about the importance of preserving our natural resources.

In addition to her environmental efforts, Schenker also works to empower young girls and women through sport. She serves as a role model for aspiring female athletes. Joana was even awarded a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll. The Barbie Awards is an international project by Mattel that celebrates and distinguishes women who inspire children and younger generations in their respective countries. Her Barbie and its bodyboard sit proudly on her shelf along with the Portuguese Order of Merit the Portuguese president awarded her.

Joana Schenker’s impact extends far beyond the waves. She is a true ambassador for her sport and her country, using her platform to make a positive difference in the world. We talked about all of this and more on the new episode of Talk About Tomorrow, which is out this month.

 Instagram: @joana_schenker

Photos © Francisco Pinheiro

Check Joana Schenker’s episode of Talk About Tomorrow on SpotifyApple Podcasts and YouTube.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit

Share this edition

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Email