Introducing ASI Surfing Instructor, Ramona Faas, Portugal

For many surfing instructors, the ocean becomes more than a place to practise a sport. It becomes a classroom, a career path and a way of life.

For ASI Surfing Instructor Ramona Faas, surfing has brought together her background in sports science, her experience teaching swimming, and her love of being active in nature. Originally from Germany and now based in Portugal, Ramona’s journey into surf instruction began with a university field trip and grew into a deep passion for helping others experience the joy of catching waves.

In this ASI Instructor Story, Ramona shares how she discovered surfing, why she became an ASI instructor, and what she loves most about supporting beginner surfers in the water.

Tell us about your background. Where are you from and where do you live now?

“I’m from Germany and have been living in Portugal for the past five years.

I studied sports science and have been teaching sports, especially swimming, for over 12 years. I love being active in nature, and I would describe water as my favourite element.”

What first got you involved in surfing?

“During my first semester of university, I went on a surfing field trip to France for two weeks. From that point on, I was fascinated by surfing and started trying to learn it.

I think it is one of the most exciting and challenging sports in the world. Learning to surf is a long process, and I am still in that process.”

Why did you become an ASI Surf Instructor?

“I’ve always enjoyed teaching sports and swimming. Helping beginners in the water as they try their first waves, and motivating them, is a lot of fun.

I also felt it was important to teach and support people in the best way, especially if they are not used to being in the ocean.

Earning my ASI Surfing Instructor certification allowed me to stay in Portugal longer than I had planned and helped me realise my dream of living close to the ocean.”

Check out ASI Surfing Instructor Courses

What are you doing now?

“At the moment, I am still living in Portugal and being a full-time mum to a wonderful little boy.

I will go back to teaching soon.”

What do you like most about being a surf instructor?

“It is beautiful to help people start or improve their surfing skills, teach them new things, and share the joy and fun of the sport with them.

The moment someone catches their first wave on a board is magical, and it is great to see the excitement on their faces.”

Can you share an inspiring or memorable moment from instructing?

“For me, it has always been the little surfers who filled me with joy.

That energy is truly special, and it was so wonderful when the kids kept coming back for surfing lessons. Coming again to surf together was the best thing for them.

They would sometimes give you a picture they had drawn themselves of your surfing lesson, or other little handmade presents.”

A Surf Instructor Story Built on Water, Teaching and Joy

Ramona’s journey into surf instruction brings together many of the qualities that make a great instructor: a love of water, a background in teaching, patience with beginners, and a genuine enjoyment of helping people progress.

From her early surf experience in France to building a life near the ocean in Portugal, Ramona’s story shows how surfing can become more than a sport. It can open doors to new places, new skills, new communities and new ways of living.

For anyone thinking about becoming a surfing instructor, her story is a reminder that the journey does not have to start with being an expert surfer. It can start with curiosity, a love of teaching, and the desire to help others feel confident in the water.

Become an ASI Surf Instructor

Do you love surfing, teaching and spending time by the ocean?

ASI Surfing Instructor courses help surfers develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to deliver safe, supportive and professional surf lessons.

Whether you are looking for seasonal work, a career change, travel opportunities or a new way to share your passion for surfing, becoming an ASI Surfing Instructor could be your next step.

Find an ASI Surfing Instructor course and start your journey.

About ASI 

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. Established in 2003, with our head office in Bondi Beach, Sydney Australia, 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, international career opportunities and adventure.