Shaun Tomson: Surfing Legend

    • Highlights:
    Reading time: 3 min
    Reviews: (3 reviews)
    Rated 5 out of 5
    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

    Keynote Topics

    Shaun Tomson is a native of South Africa and he spent fourteen years on the Professional Tour, winning surfing competitions all over the world whilst developing international apparel brands.

    He is a business finance graduate from the University of Natal in South Africa and is the founder of Instinct and Solitude Sportswear, multi-million dollar international apparel ventures.

    Surfer Magazine ranked Shaun Tomson in the top ten of its “50 Greatest Surfers of All Time,” as chosen by an elite list of voters made up of pro surfers, photographers, filmmakers, journalists, captains of the industry, and the living legends themselves.

    He is the founder of Solitude Sportswear, a multi-million dollar international apparel company.

    He is Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Surfrider Foundation, the world’s largest surfing environmental group, and the author of the best selling book Surfer’s Code as well as the companion book to his documentary film Bustin’ Down The Door.

    In addition, Shaun Tomson is currently producing a series of motivational sports films.

    Shaun Tomson has spoken at schools, universities, business organizations, law firms, environmental groups, retailers, sports clubs and veterans organizations.

    Shaun diverges from the standard sports metaphor of personal success being solely tied to winning.

    Like surfing a wave, a successful and enriching ride through life is not about crossing a finishing line first; it is all about maintaining a positive, balanced attitude and extending the limits of one’s own personal standards.

    In addition to his “50 Greatest Surfers of All Time” ranking, Shaun Tomson was listed as one of the “25 Most Influential Surfers of the Century” (Surfer 1999), one of the “16 Greatest Surfers of All Time” (Surfing 2004) and the “Greatest Tube Rider of All Time” (Surfing Life 1993).

    Additional honors include nine appearances on the cover of Surfing and Surfer magazines, an inductee on the Huntington Beach Surfing Walk of Fame (1997), the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (1998), the South African Sports Hall of Fame (1977) and the SIMA “Environmentalist of the Year Award” (2002).

    What is most important to Shaun Tomson is giving back to the community; sharing the lessons he has learned about life.

    Surfing has made me a better person. It is a transformative experience and an inspiring ride through life that reveals fundamental lessons on how to stay balanced, overcome challenges and adapt to an ever-changing world.

    While the lessons Shaun shares are taken from the world’s oceans, they translate powerfully to everyday life and extraordinary challenges.

    They reflect the attitude and outlook necessary to not just survive the ups and downs of life, but to master them and emerge a winner.

    Shaun Tomson lives with his wife Carla in Montecito, California.

    In Surfer’s Code: 12 Simple Lessons for Riding Through Life, world champion surfer Shaun Tomson shares the life lessons he’s gathered from decades of surfing-from his boyhood adventures in South Africa to the world tour in the late 1970s to the business world today.

    For Shaun Tomson – Surfing Champion Entrepreneur surfing is a hobby, a sport, a religion, an obsession and more-it is a way of life. Tomson’s life lessons have guided his career to the top of both professional competition and the world of business.

    Now, he shares these powerful lessons, born on the world’s best swells, with all people-including those who might never step on a surfboard.

    These lessons are born of the collective wisdom of the surf community and are a powerful source of inspiration in the face of extraordinary challenges of everyday life.

    Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

    Shaun Tomson | Surfing Legend

    Videos

    Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

    Speaker Contact Form

    Enquiry Form

    Overview:

    Shaun Tomson's presentations have garnered widespread acclaim for their engaging and impactful delivery. Reviewers consistently highlight his exceptional public speaking skills, ability to connect with diverse audiences, and the insightful life lessons he shares drawn from his own experiences. His talks have been described as captivating and inspiring, effectively resonating with groups ranging from MBA students to industry professionals.

    Strengths:

    • Charismatic and effective public speaking
    • Ability to connect with varied audiences across cultural backgrounds
    • Engaging content that combines humor with profound insights
    • Positive feedback from participants who found the lessons highly relevant

    Weaknesses:

    • None explicitly mentioned in the reviews, suggesting a strong overall reception.

    Overall, Shaun Tomson is highly recommended as a speaker for conferences and educational programs, with a call for his work to reach a wider audience.

    Was this profile helpful?

    Talent FAQ's

    Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

    Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

    The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

    Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

    Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

    • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
    • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
    • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
    • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
    • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
    • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
    • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

    Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

    View further speakers

    • (46)
    Shadia Bseiso

    Shadia Bseiso is a TV presenter and trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete from Jordan. Bseiso’s professionalism, natural charisma, and athletic ability earned her a developmental contract as the first Arab woman from the Middle East to be signed to WWE. Shadia Bseiso’s unique blend of talents has made her one of the most sought-after event moderators […]

    • Travels from: Dubai, UAE
    • Event Emcee
    • (13)

    DJ Pablo Bendr is an international music producer, DJ and pianist. His productions inhabit the terrain of melodic house, combining electronic dance elements with strong pop sensibility, featuring vocals from collaborating singers in the English and Spanish pop world. His songs currently rotate on several Top 40 radio stations across Chile, Argentina, Spain and California. […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Mobile DJ
    • (56)
    • (3)
    Michael McQueen

    Michael McQueen is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker and expert in navigating change, recognized for his powerful insights on future trends and innovation. With over two decades of experience in helping organizations and leaders stay ahead of disruption, Michael has earned a reputation for delivering dynamic, research-backed strategies that drive resilience and adaptability. His best-selling […]

    • Travels from: Sydney, NSW
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (9)
    Tom Crean

    Tom Crean is a highly respected basketball coach, known for his remarkable leadership and strategic acumen in collegiate basketball. With a career spanning over three decades, Crean has established himself as a transformative figure in the sport, leading teams to significant successes and nurturing the talents of numerous future NBA stars. His dynamic coaching style, […]

    • Travels from: Bloomington, IN
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (29)
    Caroline Rhea

    Caroline Rhea is a stand-up comedian, actress, writer, director, and talk show host, best known for her role as “Aunt Hilda” on the ABC hit comedy series, Sabrina the Teenage Witch. She has starred in seven comedy specials for Comedy Central, HBO, Showtime, CBC and most recently filmed her latest special at the Sydney Opera […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Comedian Hosts
    • (53)
    Sloane Stephens - Image 03 (April 27, 2026)

    Sloane Stephens, born in Plantation, Florida, seemed destined for athletic achievement from the jump. Her mother, Sybil Smith, was an All-American swimmer at Boston University, while her father, John Stephens, was an NFL running back. Taking up tennis at the age of nine, Sloane quickly progressed in the sport, attending the Saviano High Performance Tennis […]

    • Travels from: Washington, DC
    • Sporting Speakers
    • (10)
    Aerial Bartenders

    Aerial bartenders bring a unique and captivating twist to event entertainment by serving drinks while suspended in the air. Combining acrobatics, elegance, and mixology, these performers gracefully pour beverages from aerial hoops, silks, or other aerial apparatus, adding a touch of spectacle to any gathering. Perfect for upscale events, weddings, and corporate functions, aerial bartenders […]

    • Travels from: Nationwide
    • Aerial Performers
    • (52)
    Diana Nyad - Image 05 (April 24, 2026)

    Diana Nyad, a name synonymous with unyielding determination and indomitable spirit, is a true embodiment of the human potential to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Her remarkable journey to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage is a testament to her unshakable resolve, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Motivational Speakers
    Disclaimer
    The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

    These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

    Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

    All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

    Speakers Inc.

    Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

    We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

    Find the Perfect Speaker

    Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

    © All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

    AI Assistant
    Speakers Inc Logo 2024
    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.