João Macedo big wave rider

João Macedo, environmental activist and the first European to qualify for the Big Wave World Tour, is a prominent figure in the surfing world. Born on 1 June 1977 in New Haven, Connecticut, to Portuguese parents, João discovered his passion for the sea at a young age.

He became a professional surfer and reached the top-five in the 2012/2013 season of the World Big Wave Championship.

In addition, he co-founded the World Surfing Reserves Programme and was instrumental in designating Ericeira as the world's first surfing reserve.

João continues to contribute to the sport as a member of the Portuguese team in the World Surf League's Nazaré Tow Challenge and currently serves as president of the Hope Zones Foundation.

Hope Zones Foundation: places where the ocean can be experienced in a healthy and invigorating way: Nazaré, Sintra, Arrifana and the Azores).

The funds will be used to support the necessary scientific studies, a pilot algae reforestation project and the foundation's investment in community building.