Wild Ideas Worth Living Creating a Women's Surf Collective with Jessa Williams
Jun 17, 2025
Jessa Williams, the visionary founder of Intrsxtn Surf, discusses her journey of creating a surf collective that empowers Black women and women of color. She shares her personal transformation from a sedentary lifestyle to discovering the joy of surfing, illustrating how it fosters community and resilience. The conversation dives into the significance of inclusivity in surf culture, the role of vulnerability in personal growth, and the emotional healing that comes from connecting with the ocean and fellow surfers.
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Son Bullied Jessa into Surfing
- Jessa Williams started surfing when her son bullied her into joining his surf lessons during the pandemic.
- She found the experience humbling but addictive, returning for the challenge despite initial failures.
Surfing Creates Mental Clarity
- Surfing gave Jessa a rare feeling of being present and unplugged from her overwhelming tech-industry life.
- The ocean became a space where she felt no external demands or distractions, offering mental clarity.
Racist Encounter Sparks Movement
- Jessa was harassed in the water with racist and sexist insults, which motivated her to create Intersection Surf.
- She wanted to build a safe, inclusive community for Black women and women of color in surfing.
