Holly
“I’m inspired by all the strong women that came before me that made noise, disrupted the system, and set the foundation for the rest of us to come!”
Holly, a former professional surfer, has spent the last decade leading Surf with Amigas, an all-inclusive surf and yoga retreat in Central America exclusively for women. Passionate about surfing, she now focuses on developing surf therapy programs for women in California. Having experienced the transformative effect of the sea firsthand, Holly found solace in the waves during a challenging upbringing. Surfing became her means of overcoming adversity, fostering self-connection, and building meaningful connections with others. Motivated by her own journey, Holly is committed to utilizing her athleticism and background to empower women globally. This is her story.
P: Please introduce yourself!
H: My name is Holly Beck. I am a former professional surfer who has spent the last 11 years living in Central America running women's surf and yoga retreats. I recently moved back to CA because my kids are now school-age (5 and 7) and felt like it was time for a change. I was feeling stagnant and looking for some new inspiration. I am currently a masters' of counseling student, combining a passion for supporting other women and surfing to create surf therapy programs.
P: Describe or define yourself in your own words.
H: I am a super hard worker, a giver, a life enthusiast, and a coffee addict that loves waking up in the dark to surf good waves in warm water.
P: What is your favourite thing about yourself?
H: I'm smart and strong, someone who values partnership and working together.
P: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that’s defined you or made you stronger?
H: I grew up the oldest of five sisters in a household full of drama and trauma. Surviving that emotionally wasn't easy and I definitely carry scars as a result. That said, learning to navigate my emotions while looking out for my younger sisters and eventually finding forgiveness for my parents has certainly made me stronger.
P: What is one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
H: Believe in and trust yourself, it's all going to turn out better than you can even imagine.
P: What does being a woman mean to you?
H: Being a woman is owning my power as a goddess whose hormones vary with the moon, with natural ability to be empathetic and withstand hardship.
P: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say if they were here now?
H: I'm inspired by all the strong women that came before me, made noise, disrupted the system, and set the foundation for the rest of us to come!