Introducing: Maria Prado, ASI Surfing Instructor, Algarve, Portugal

Despite starting her surfing adventure later in life, Maria Prado proved that age is no barrier to pursuing a dream.  She set her sights on becoming a surfing instructor.

What is your background?

My name is Maria Prado, and I am a 52-year-old Brazilian woman living in the south of Portugal at Portimao, Algarve. Surfing had always been a dream of mine, but I only began my journey 10 years ago. Some might say I started late, but I believe age is just a number—it’s never too late to chase a passion.

What got you involved in the sport?

I enrolled in a surfing lessons with my daughter when she was nine years old. We wanted to do something together.

Unfortunately, my daughter didn’t share my enthusiasm for surfing.   But I became hooked. 

Surfing became more than just an activity for me —it was a way to overcome challenges.

At the time, I was quitting smoking, and surfing helped me find relaxation and ease through the process. Instead of my old habit, surfing became my new addiction, marking the beginning of my lifelong love affair with the sport.

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

After two years of lessons, I wanted to immerse myself even further in the surfing world. I applied to work at the very same school where I had been learning. Initially, I worked behind the desk, handling bookings, gear rentals, and organizing lessons. Sometimes, I would help with kids' classes when needed.

As I progressed in my surfing skills, I felt I had found the right place for me. I asked my boss for help with the application process to become a surf instructor. He hesitated for a while—I wasn’t sure if it was because of my age or my skill level—but I didn’t give up.  I kept asking until, one day, he said yes.

I had many friends who had completed the ASI course and loved it, so I knew ASI was the right choice for me. The day I applied was one of the most exciting moments of my life. Learning about something I loved so much was incredibly fulfilling.

What are you doing now?

Now, I am a Surf Coach- ASI Grau 1 Treinadores de Surfing, specialising in teaching kids and working with the Surfcura project, which provides surfing lessons for people with disabilities. Currently, we have seven blind surfers and one surfer who has lost an arm.

I am also working as a freelance instructor with various schools, which keeps my passion alive and fuels my happiness.

My goal is to work with the community, sharing the incredible energy that surfing has brought into my life. It has given me so much, and I just want to pass that on to others.

What do you like about being an instructor?

Teaching allows me to share the joy of surfing with others, and seeing students progress is deeply rewarding.

Surfing isn’t just about riding waves; it’s about confidence, determination, and a deep connection with nature.

Whether I am teaching beginners or working with students facing disabilities, I love witnessing how surfing transforms lives. The sense of freedom and accomplishment it brings is unmatched.

Tell us about an inspiring story about your student(s) or memorable experiences you've had while instructing.

One of the most inspiring moments I’ve had while instructing was working with the Surfcura project. Seeing blind surfers confidently ride waves is something truly remarkable. Their courage and determination remind me why I fell in love with teaching in the first place.

There was one student who lost an arm but was determined to master the sport. Watching them adapt, push through challenges, and succeed was awe-inspiring. Their perseverance taught me that surfing is not just about physical ability—it’s about mindset and the will to never give up.

Every lesson reinforces why I continue to teach and learn. Surfing has shaped my life in ways I never imagined, and I will always keep sharing the joy it has given me.

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.
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