Introducing Allannah Brown, ASI Surfing Instructor, Cornwall, England, UK

Rather than following the traditional university path, Allannah pursued her passion, forging a career as a surf instructor and school owner that spans 17 years.

What is your background?

Growing up in Newquay, Cornwall, UK, I was always surrounded by the ocean, but it wasn’t until I was 13 that I picked up a surfboard—after that, I was hooked. Surfing quickly became my sanctuary during the toughest years of my life.

I was coping with grief from losing several family members, dealing with bullying at school, and struggling with my weight. Even in the water and at the skatepark, I felt out of place.

I often surfed alone, but in doing so, I built resilience, confidence, and a sense of self that I couldn’t find anywhere else. The ocean became my safe haven, and it still is to this day.

What got you involved in the sport?

At 11, I’d sneak off to the beach to go bodyboarding by myself. Living with my gran at the time, I would tell her I was meeting up with a friend and her family—but in reality, it was just me, my board, and the waves.

I was glued to the Extreme Sports Channel, mesmerized by Keala Kennelly carving up the surf with her mohawk, baggy board shorts, and fearless energy. She made me realize that surfing wasn’t just a sport—it was a lifestyle, and I wanted in.

Then one day, fate (or just bad luck!) sealed the deal. While bodyboarding, I got caught in a rip current and was run over by a surfer. His fin sliced straight through my board. I looked at the wreckage and thought, Well, that’s the end of bodyboarding... might as well start surfing instead!

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

University never appealed to me—I was too busy dreaming of chasing waves around the world, the ones I’d seen in surf mags and old DVDs.

At 17, that passion led me to become a surf instructor, and now, 17 years later, I’m still doing what I love. Even better, I run my own surf academy.

I become an ASI instructor in 2013,  with ASI in Cornwall.   ASI is well known and was the only  international surfing organisation in the UK at the time.

What are you doing now?

I’ve been running my own surf school in Newquay for the past four years. We specialize in surf courses for all abilities, creating a supportive space where students can gain confidence, build friendships, and experience the joy of surfing.

Our holistic approach ensures that surfers not only improve their technique but also deepen their connection with the ocean and themselves.

I still travel several times a year, I love what I do here in the UK, but the feet need to be itched and there are so many new waves to be explored! 

What do you like about being an instructor?

Surfing has taken me across the globe, introduced me to incredible cultures, and allowed me to ride world-class waves—all while making a living doing what I love.

The best part? The people. Getting to coach and connect with like-minded surfers, share experiences, and help others find their flow in the water is something I’ll never take for granted.

Also, helping others overcome the same challenges I faced when learning to surf has been incredibly fulfilling.  There’s nothing like witnessing the moment when things click for a student—when they ride a wave and realize, I can do this!

Tell us about a memorable experience while instructing.

One time in Indonesia, when I was living and working there (with a permit, of course!), our boat broke anchor and drifted straight into the lineup—where it promptly capsized!

Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the boat was completely destroyed. With no way to paddle back, I gathered everyone together, and we all clung to a rope conveniently attached to the reef while waiting for rescue.

Despite the chaos, we kept the energy light, laughing through the situation until help arrived. It’s one of those moments that, even years later, makes me smile—proof that surfing teaches more than just technique. It teaches resilience, adaptability, and a deep love for the unexpected.

About ASI
ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.
#ProudToBeASI  #ASIinstructor   #ASIschool
#surfing  #surfinginstructor  #surfcoach   #surfschool #surfwise