Two years ago, if someone was to tell me I would be writing an entry for an organisation called WAVES for Development, this statement would have elicited two reactions. The first, I would have responded by asking them if they could read the future. The second, I would have immediately jumped at the opportunity. Today, I find myself writing about the WAVES cause and I could not be happier.
WAVES Surf Shop
So, who is Nick Sands and why WAVES for Development? I am a senior at Appalachian State University with a major in Global Studies and a minor in Non-Profit Management. Why WAVES? An organisation that seamlessly combines surfing and sustainable development will grab the attention of any environmentalist, economist, teacher, surfer, tourist, politician, or pretty much anyone. An important aspect in international development is achieving sustainability. Not only environmentally, but socially and economically, this is what sets WAVES apart from a number of voluntourism NGOs. While I have been fortunate enough to work with WAVES thus far, the work I do here is more about the people who will benefit. In this case, the staff members are the intended beneficiaries.
Come in for a visit
In 2011, the surf shop was opened as a place for an exchange of ideas, and a place where community members could learn more about starting their own business. Three years later, it is run by a team of recently-hired local Lobiteños. As the shop is relatively new, a slow day at the store is not uncommon. I therefore hope to teach the staff the best methods of advertising and marketing for the shop. Whether for the shop, or another business, my goal is for the staff to continue using the knowledge they gain. As Lobitos is a popular destination for surfers, there is plenty of potential for business. It is only a matter of discovering what type of advertising, is viable to the town and surrounding areas. Given that Lobitos is only a town of one-thousand, perhaps the best marketing strategy is creating lasting relationships with other businesses.
View from the Surf Shop
Along with the creation of connections, the learning process is an important factor in any development work. For example, how will the staff apply their knowledge? Will they create deadlines for the implementation of deadlines? Or will they churn out surprising results through improvisation? In a culture that places emphasis on relationships and taking one’s time, it will be interesting to see how deadlines and goals will fit into the work.
With the answers to these questions still in the future, I can say I am not worried about the results. As long as we have fun in the process, the outcome will happen for the best.
