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
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.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
DJ Melione is a trailblazing Asian-American hip-hop artist whose talent, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made her a standout figure in the music scene. Hailing from Southern California, DJ Melione is not only a captivating performer but also a gifted songwriter who crafts her own music, ensuring her work resonates with authenticity and […]
PartyLikeaMotha has been DJ’n for over 10 years, formally known as ‘Wendi Cakes’ but now I go by the name PartyLikeaMotha. She has gone on tour with POP group sensation, Far East Movement better known for their hit single “Fly like a G6”. She was also a resident DJ for TAO group for many years […]
Matt Mayberry is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker and a leading global expert in leadership development, culture change, and organizational performance. With a background as a former NFL linebacker for the Chicago Bears, Matt transformed his career from the football field to the business world. His ability to inspire and motivate both leaders and teams […]
Chef Richard Blais, a name synonymous with culinary innovation and avant-garde gastronomy, has captivated the culinary world with his remarkable talents and unrelenting commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the kitchen. Born on February 19, 1972, in Uniondale, New York, Richard Blais has become a celebrated chef, restaurateur, television personality, and an […]
Kate Vitasek is a distinguished authority in collaborative business relationships, renowned for her pioneering work in transforming traditional business models into cooperative partnerships that drive innovation and mutual success. Her groundbreaking “Vested” business model has redefined how organizations approach outsourcing and strategic alliances, emphasizing a “What’s-in-it-for-We” philosophy that fosters shared value and long-term sustainability. Recognized […]
Terence Keel is more than a professor; he is a trailblazer in the realms of academia and social justice. As a Full Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), he holds a prestigious split appointment in the Department of African American Studies and the UCLA Institute for Society and Genetics. With an unwavering […]
Anthony Trucks is not your average motivational speaker. With a remarkable journey that encapsulates resilience, determination, and the power of identity transformation, he has captivated audiences worldwide. From his humble beginnings in the foster care system to the pinnacle of professional football and beyond, Trucks’ story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to […]
Audie Cornish has become a recognized and trusted voice on the airwaves as co-host of NPR’s flagship news program, All Things Considered. Cornish’s career in journalism began at the Associated Press in Boston in 2001, just before the Sept. 11 terror attacks. The following year, her love of radio brought her to Boston’s WBUR, where […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
