Catch up with our stainless steel photoshoot models, Sisters of Stoke
We caught up with Martina & Lizzie, founders of Sisters of Stoke, who starred in our stainless steel campaign alongside their community members Sammy and Amy. We chatted about the female surf scene and what it’s like to be a part of an amazing ocean community.
- How did you each get into surfing? And when did you decide to form Sisters of Stoke?
M: I got into surfing during my late teens, I was inspired by my love for the ocean and the want to do more. Sisters of Stoke came about when I realised there were so few communities dedicated to women in the sport. L: I got into surfing when I moved down to Bournemouth. It was something I had always wanted to do, and having a strong connection with the ocean I always loved the thought of doing a sport that encompassed that passion. I met Martina by chance, and we quickly became friends, and she showed me the basics of how to surf. Since then, I’ve not been able to keep out of the water and love going surfing as often as possible! M: We wanted to create a safe and welcoming space where women could feel supported, empowered, and part of a community that shares the same stoke. It officially formed when we realised how much we could accomplish together, fostering a more inclusive space for women in the water. L: When Martina asked me to come on board with her idea of starting a local women’s surf group, I couldn’t say no. I really would have loved a community like this when I very first started, as trying lessons or going out surfing on your own can be really intimidating. So, the thought of creating a safe space for women to enjoy surfing no matter their age or ability, all whilst helping people to form new friendships and social connections was something I wanted to be part of.
- What does Sisters of Stoke do? Who is Sisters of Stoke for? And how often do Sisters of Stoke meet?
L: Sisters of Stoke is a women’s surf community in Bournemouth, and we are dedicated to empowering women through the ocean and surfing. M: We organise surf sessions, trips, and community events that allow women of all skill levels to join. It’s for women who want to find a supportive community. L: We have created such an encouraging environment for anyone who wants to come to our socials, and we are so lucky to have so many amazing and inspiring women attending. M: We meet at least 2/3 times a month, but we often have informal meet ups for local surf days more frequently. L: As the waves can be unpredictable, we also host sea dips and drinks socials to provide something for everyone and allow those who are less confident in the surf to still be included in the community. Sisters of Stoke is a community for women who are passionate about surfing and want to be part of a supportive group of women, lifting each other up through the joy of the ocean.
- Do you have a favourite place to surf?
M: One of my favourite spots to surf is Fistral Beach in Newquay, Cornwall. The waves there are just magic, and it has this beautiful balance of consistency and challenge. Plus, the vibe is always positive and welcoming.
L: We love surfing around the local beaches in Dorset, but unfortunately, we do not have consistent waves throughout all the seasons. My favourite surf spot would probably be Watergate Bay in Cornwall, where we have been for some of the surf trips that we host! It is a beautiful beach and easily accessible when we have beginners with us, so that all of the women in our community can be included.
- How can we encourage more women to start surfing?
L: I think there has been a big improvement in making space for women in the surfing community, but there is still a way to go. M: Offering women-only lessons, hosting beginner-friendly meet ups, and creating a non-judgmental, supportive environment where people feel comfortable trying something new are key steps. L: It can be scary and intimidating, especially as a beginner, which is why communities like Sisters of Stoke are so important in encouraging women to just get in the water and give it a go without risking being judged. M: Representation matters too—when women see other women thriving in the sport, it helps build confidence. L: Hopefully it’ll inspire a new generation of women by seeing female surfers at the top of their game.
- What do you do when you’re not surfing? And how do you balance surfing alongside your career/studies/other responsibilities?
M: When I’m not surfing, I’m a full-time uni student, studying Sports and Exercise science at Winchester uni. Balancing surfing with other responsibilities can be tricky, but I see surfing as something that enhances everything else I do. It gives me energy and clarity, so I make sure to carve out time for it, even if it’s just a quick session before or after work or studies.
L: When I’m not surfing, I am currently working full-time in a children and adolescents mental health service. It can be challenging to balance full time work with running Sisters of Stoke, but when I see the women in our community out in the water at our socials smiling, laughing, and having fun, it makes it so worthwhile. I also think surfing is an amazing thing to do for wellbeing, and surfing is a time where I can be really mindful and quiet my mind of busy thoughts.
- What are your goals for the future (both personally & with SOS)?
M: Personally, I want to continue improving my surfing skills and explore more international surf spots. L: And I really want to improve my surf skills and progress as a surfer. I love seeing little bits of improvement the more I surf and can’t wait to see where I will be in the next year. M: For Sisters of Stoke, offering more events, and potentially collaborating with other women-led organisations globally. L: I would love to see our community grow even more and help even more women be able to access surfing and form new friendships. M: I’d love to see Sisters of Stoke grow into a movement that inspires more women worldwide to embrace surfing.
- What’s your usual go-to piece of jewellery? And what style do you usually go for?
M: I usually go for something simple but meaningful. My go-to is a small ocean-inspired necklace, like a shell or wave pendant, because it reminds me of my connection to the sea, even when I’m not in the water. My style is pretty laid-back, so I prefer minimalistic pieces that are durable and comfortable for an active lifestyle.
L: Mine is probably earrings or rings. I have a lot of ear piercings, and you will never catch me without them in, even when I’m out in the surf! When I’m out of the water I love to accessorise with lots of rings for more of a dressed-up style. I tend to go for simple-style jewellery, but love added details that make pieces feel a little more unique. I love to mix and match with silver and gold jewellery to create a unique look.
- Are you someone who keeps the same jewellery on every day, or do you like to switch what you wear often?
M: I tend to keep the same pieces on every day. L: Day-to-day I am definitely a creature of habit and wear the same jewellery. M: I like the idea of having something that becomes a part of you and carries sentimental value. I rarely switch unless I’m dressing up for a special occasion. L: I like to have almost a signature style with my jewellery, so tend to go for the same set of core pieces. But when I’m going out or have a special occasion, I like to throw in something different and express myself differently through the jewellery I choose.
- What are your favourite pieces in the new Pineapple Island stainless steel collection?
M: I love the rings in the collection, especially the turquoise gem rings. They’re not only stylish but also durable enough to wear while surfing, which is important for me.
L: I really love everything in the collection! I am someone who loves to have a lot of choice, and I think there is something for everyone in this collection. But, if I had to narrow it down, I would say the beaded bracelets and the pendant-style necklaces in the collection are so pretty and delicate. Everything is also waterproof so I can tuck my bracelet into my wetsuit and not have to worry about its durability when I’m out in the water.
