“I believe even the smallest actions can make a world of difference. Every bottle cap, every plastic bag, and every discarded wrapper removed from the beach is a step towards preserving the ocean we love.” # 59 // smorgasboarder // 72
INTERVIEW Agata Dobrzynska Growing up by the Baltic Sea in the beautiful city of Gdansk, Poland, Agata Dobrzynska developed a profound love of the ocean at a young age. Little did she know that this adoration would shape her entire life as an Australian kiteboarding champion... with more than just a few state titles up her sleeve. Before she ever set foot on a kiteboard, however, she was carving it up on the slopes, working as a snowboard instructor, competing in Polish Championships, and even proudly representing the University of Gdansk in slalom events. Agata said those were the days of excitement and fierce competition, where every adrenaline-fueled moment laid the groundwork for all of her future adventures. “After completing university and earning a degree in marine biology, something inside me shifted. I realised that I couldn’t bear to be far from the ocean. And so, my kiteboarding journey began. For me, kiteboarding isn’t just about competition and travelling – it’s about living life to the fullest. “It’s about embracing the freedom of the open water and the exhilaration of soaring through the air. And hey, if I can inspire others along the way, whether through coaching or competing, then that’s the cherry on top.” Ever since taking a leap into the world of kiteboarding ten years ago, Agata has been whisked away to some of the most breathtaking places on Earth, from her home turf in Gdansk through to Africa, the Caribbean islands, Brazil, South America, Australia, and you name it. Agata told us she has lived and kited on five continents, soaking in the beauty, shores, and sun of each unique destination. And, as far as we could tell from her bubbly, can-do attitude, she still can’t get enough. “Every year brings new projects, new challenges, and new adventures. There’s always something exciting on the horizon, beckoning me to push the limits and explore new frontiers. It’s a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and endless possibility. “Travelling is a huge part of my life, and I cannot imagine myself living in one place, or maybe not just yet. As much as it might be tiring, this is my lifestyle, and I cannot imagine it any other way. “All of this wouldn’t be possible without the brands who support me and believe in me. They give me motivation and a reason to work harder while always making me aim higher with new projects and ideas. I know the best is yet to come.” Agata’s association with so many beachy and active brands is a result of her radiant social media presence. On her Instagram, you’ll find her surfing alongside dolphins, advocating for what she believes in, sharing motivational anecdotes, and even snowboarding on the slopes of an active volcano. She never stops chasing what excites her, and for that reason, she spends her time bouncing in between the blue lagoons of Western Australia, the beaches of the Sunshine Coast, and the winter wonderland that is the Australian Alps. “Agata has been championing SheKites for six years, and emphasises that it isn’t just a project – it’s a community where every woman has the potential to soar, both on and off the water.” # 59 // smorgasboarder // 73