LARA WENT

Lara Went is a mother, Worimi Woman, Contemporary Aborignal Artist, Owner and founder of Yukul Art. Lara has always been connected to the sea from a very young age, traveling the coast with her family, surfing and living a simple lifestyle. Lara is very passionate about her culture and draws inspiration for her art from her homeland. Lara shares her knowledge of caring for Country through her art and regularly visits the local community to educate all generations. All of Lara's art pieces are created to share knowledge and are gentle reminders that Mother Nature is fragile and we must care for her as she cares so well for us.

ANDREW LEECE

Andrew Leece has grown up exploring land and sea. Whether surfing, skiing or climbing mountains his drive to acquire knowledge and experiences in the natural world has led him to explore across several continents. Andrew began his work life with 8 years at Macquarie Bank before diving into entrepreneurship. He has established several finance and technology ventures that have seen him reside in Berlin and Los Angeles. In addition to the early stage growth experience, living abroad has also informed a deeper understanding for differing cultural and political views toward climate change, environment and social issues.

SAM SUENDERMANN

Sam Suendermann is passionate about the power of surfing to bring people together. Sam has worked with surf programs for young asylum seekers, and conducted research with the Surf Coast Shire Council exploring the social value of surfing, helping produce an all-female cast surf film titled ‘Delama Warri’. Sam has lived and worked in Vanuatu, experiencing firsthand the devastating impacts of climate change. She co-founded Solwota Sista with young Ni-Vanuatu women, a platform empowering a female-led movement to take action on social and environmental issues. Sam balances her time between Vanuatu and Australia, where she works closely with her local community on climate initiatives.