Surfer Mom Spotlight: How Lea Reclaimed Herself Through Surfing in Siargao

From Coastal Roots to Island Life

@leagoeson grew up in Oroquieta, a small coastal town in northern Mindanao. Her childhood was spent fishing with her family, leaping into rivers, and sailing with her dad on his fishing boat. Water was always part of her life. She felt at home in it long before she ever discovered surfing.

Finding Herself Again Through Surfing

Now based in Siargao, one of the most iconic surf destinations in the world, Lea’s connection to the ocean has deepened through surfing. But her surf story didn’t start with epic barrels. It began with a quiet, personal turning point. After giving birth, she struggled through the emotional challenges of postpartum life. Surfing became her anchor. “Surfing helped me find myself again,” she says. “Even just a few minutes paddling out made such a big difference. I was finally breathing again.”

Sharing the Joy With Her Daughter

As a first-time mom and surfer, Lea says the ocean gave her clarity, confidence, and a return to joy. She now shares that joy with her daughter, who has started to surf too. “My favorite moment? When she says, ‘Celle la, celle la Pousse moi’ (‘That one, that one Push me’). Every day, that’s what I look forward to.”

Surf-Ready Mom-Approved: Why She Loves Elation

Lea discovered Elation the Label while she was pregnant in 2019 and has been surfing in our pieces ever since. “I love that Elation bikinis are surf proof and stylish. My favorite is the Satu Surf Suit. It’s easy to wear, great for moms, and that side pocket is genius”

Words of Wisdom for Other Women

She is part of a growing movement of women who are making space for surfing in motherhood and making it look effortless. To women in their surf era, postpartum chapter, or simply seeking joy, Lea offers this “Take your time. Life is long and beautiful. Find something that makes you want to wake up every day. For me, it was surfing. It’s never too late.”

Why We Share Stories Like Lea’s

At Elation we design surfwear that empowers women to live fully in and out of the water. Lea’s story is a beautiful reminder that surfing is more than a sport. It’s a way home to yourself.