World champion surfer and author Shaun Tomson visited Punahou School on Wednesday, Nov. 12, speaking to the Senior Class in Chapel and later to grades 9 – 11 in Dillingham Hall. Drawing on his experiences growing up in apartheid-era South Africa and becoming one of surfing’s most influential figures, Tomson urged students to define success through purpose, resilience and doing their best.
Tomson reflected on his ties to Hawai‘i, including his family’s friendship with Duke Kahanamoku and his close connection to Eddie Aikau. He also shared how following his passion for surfing helped inspire the beginnings of what would become the World Surf League.
A central theme of his talk was The Code, a set of twelve “I will…” statements he created to help young people make positive decisions. Developed after the loss of his son, The Code has now reached more than 60,000 students and encourages them to lead with intention, courage and compassion.
Tomson challenged Punahou students to use their strengths to help others and engage in purpose-driven work, from environmental action to everyday kindness. He closed with a reminder of the influence each person carries: “Drop a Stone, Create a Ripple, Build a Wave.”
