Shaun Tomson: Surfing Legend

Highlights:
Formats:
Audience:
Outcomes:
  • Reading Time: 3 min
  • Word Count: 590
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

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!

Talent Resources

Talent resources available for download

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (27)
Shari Levitin-1

Shari Levitin is a globally recognized sales strategist, tech influencer, and bestselling author who bridges the gap between AI innovation and authentic human connection. With over 160 million views on her transformative, often viral videos, Shari has become a powerful voice for the future of sales, where empathy meets efficiency. Her dynamic approach captivates modern […]

  • Travels from: Salt Lake City, UT
  • Sales Speakers
  • (19)
  • (4)
Tom Kolditz-cover

Tom Kolditz is a distinguished leadership expert and keynote speaker renowned for his unparalleled insights into crisis leadership, resilience, and leading under pressure. With decades of experience in both military and academic spheres, Tom brings a unique, evidence-based perspective to the art and science of leadership. His dynamic presentations inspire individuals and organizations to thrive […]

  • Travels from:
  • Crisis Management
  • (8)
Sheena Allen

Sheena Allen is a visionary leader and celebrated keynote speaker in the realm of digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. As the founder and CEO of CapWay, a neobank designed to address economic inequities and foster financial literacy, Sheena’s groundbreaking work has revolutionized how technology can empower underserved communities. Her journey from growing up in […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (48)
Melissa Majors

In an ever-evolving world where businesses strive for excellence, leadership and innovation go hand in hand. Melissa Majors, an accomplished business leader, is a shining example of how education, innovation, and inclusion can be strategically woven together to drive success. Not only is she a prominent advocate for inclusion, but she is also the author […]

  • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (128)
Ashley Stahl

Ashley Stahl is a counterterrorism professional, an international bestselling author, a spokesperson for SoFi, and an advisor for (IBM, Caterpillar) and expert on intuition, personal branding, and fulfillment. Daymond John (Shark Tank, Fubu, NYT bestselling author) says Ashley’s bestseller “You Turn: Get Unstuck, Discover Your Direction, Design Your Dream Career”, is “the ultimate guide to discover […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Empowerment Speakers
  • (14)
Dr. Dennis Cummins

Dr. Dennis Cummins is an internationally-acclaimed speaker, trainer, and #1 Best Selling Author of Turning Terrible into Terrific. He has been sharing his real-world strategies for business mastery and leadership communication from the stage for more than a decade. His quick-witted, straight-talking, no-nonsense style offers an entertaining dose of reality with heart. Despite his successes […]

  • Travels from: Scottsdale, AZ
  • Sales Speakers
  • (181)
Jann-Mardenborough-1

Jann Mardenborough’s journey is one of the most inspiring real-life transformations in modern motorsport—a bold leap from virtual racing to real-world podiums. Catapulted into fame through his extraordinary rise from gaming enthusiast to professional racing driver, Jann’s story resonates deeply with fans and audiences worldwide. His unique blend of resilience, innovation, and passion serves as […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Racing Drivers
  • (69)
Gregory Stock

Dr. Gregory Stock stands at the forefront of biotechnology and bioethics, offering profound insights into the evolving landscape of life sciences. As a biotech entrepreneur, best-selling author, and esteemed public communicator, he delves into the intricate interplay between advanced technologies and their societal implications. His compelling narratives challenge audiences to contemplate the future of human […]

  • Travels from: Boise, ID
  • Healthcare 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.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel

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.