Vaimiti: Riding the Waves of Change and Identity
Interview with Vaimiti Teiefitu – 5 minute read.
Vaimiti, a talented longboarder from Tahiti, has gracefully navigated the waters of both the surf and fashion industries. Known initially as a beauty queen, she has worked diligently to redefine her identity, showcasing her passion for surfing and her commitment to personal growth. Through a candid conversation, Vaimiti shares her journey of self-discovery, the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, and her exciting future aspirations, including an upcoming surf film project in India.
Finding Identity Beyond Titles
Vaimiti’s evolution from beauty queen to dedicated surfer represents a significant shift in her personal and professional narrative. “Through surfing, I wanted to prove that I could be more than just a pretty face with a title,” she asserts. Her determination to showcase her multifaceted identity has been successful, especially when recognized internationally as a surfer rather than solely as “Miss.” This transformation has instilled a sense of pride in her achievements and underscored the importance of pursuing diverse interests while remaining true to oneself. “I want to share that I’m a young woman with dreams and goals beyond pageantry,” she explains, embracing her role as an athlete.
Embracing Change and Overcoming Fear
Our surfer’s philosophy centers on the importance of curiosity and the willingness to explore new avenues. She encourages others not to be afraid of trying different activities or reinventing themselves, a sentiment she embodies through her own experiences. “If something excites me, I say yes,” she emphasizes, highlighting her openness to opportunities such as acting in films or even stepping into teaching roles as a substitute teacher. This adaptable mindset has served her well, allowing her to discover new passions and learn from each experience. “It’s essential not to limit ourselves to just one thing or career,” she advises, reinforcing the belief that growth often comes from embracing the unknown.
Connecting with Community and Future Aspirations
Connecting with fans and audience is primarily happening through social media, especially Instagram, where Vaimiti shares her journey in real-time. As she prepares for significant events like the Pacific Games, where she hopes to represent Tahiti, she invites her followers to be part of her excitement and training process. “I’m pre-selected for the Pacific Games, and the final selection will be in 2026,” she reveals, excited about the competitive journey ahead. Her involvement in an upcoming surf film in India with the first Indian female longboarder represents a bold step in her career. “This project is special and combines my love for surfing and storytelling,” she shares, illustrating her commitment to promoting diversity within the sport.
Vaimiti is living proof of the power of reinvention, authenticity, and the pursuit of dreams. By embracing her identity as both a longboarder and an influential figure, she encourages others to challenge themselves and remain open to various possibilities. As she surfs her career with passion and determination, Vaimiti not only rides the waves of the ocean but also surfs the tides of change, reminding us that we can all redefine our narratives and chase our aspirations relentlessly. With her eyes set on new adventures, the horizon looks promising for this graceful athlete.
