Gia - Surfer, Entrepreneur, Mama!

We are thrilled to announce our June SunBabe of the Month, Gia! A stellar surfer and mama of three, Gia, alongside her husband operate Aloha Electrical Services, an electrical contracting business based here on the Big Island. Growing up in Kona, Gia spent much of her childhood at the beach, often riding her bike up and down Ali'i Drive from Kahalu'u to Magic Sands, making impromptu stops to jump in the water, "The ocean has always been my home." Although there are so many parts that make up the awesome human Gia is, surfing is a big part of her, it's her passion. "It started by getting pounded in the shore break as a little kid, then progressed to surfing. I remember sitting on the shoulder of the lineup for years, watching how the uncles and aunties did it; where they took off, how they read the waves, etc. Over time, I became the aunty at the peak. Surfing is a huge part of who I am, it's my happy place. My husband and kids also surf because we all enjoy it."

Surfing has brought Gia opportunities to travel the world, meet new (best) friends, make some amazing memories, and has given her a sense of freedom. Surfing is subjectively one of the most exhilarating sports, but it isn't without its challenges. It requires a combination of skill, strength and knowledge of wave patterns and ocean conditions, offering exercise and unique connection to nature. "After having kids finding the motivation to get back into surfing was a huge challenge. But I kept showing up and the drive came back, and I remembered why I love being out there."

Our SunBabe is active in the community she grew up in, volunteering at the community surf contests, attending beach clean-ups, and supporting kids in the water by cheering them on and offering tips when she can; "We're all better when we lift each other up." Gia's future goals are family focused. She hopes to be able to continue to surf with her kids, go on more family surf trips, and to create a better experience for the keiki through surf events that are fun. "I'm excited to see where it goes." 

We asked Gia if she has any advice for others in the world of surfing and her answer was simple, RESPECT. "Respect others in the lineup, respect the ocean, respect the land. Watch other surfers in the lineup; take notes. Confidence grows with time, make sure your intentions are right before paddling out." And of course, she emphasized the importance of protecting your skin while in the sun! 

Gia worked in dermatology for the past 15+ years before transitioning to running her electrical business, so she has seen first-hand the consequences of skin cancer when you don't protect yourself in the sun. Because she is constantly in the sun while surfing, swimming, or cruising at the beach with her family, she has a solid sun protection protocol;  Vertra for her face topped off with Beachy Lips, and usually a rash guard or sun shirt for her body. Her favorite Beachy Lips color is Bougie, a nude beige with pink and orange undertones. "Bougie Beachy Lips keeps my lips soft and protected, and I look cute while I'm out in the sun all day."

Gia left us with a quote by the legendary, Duke Kahanamoku, "The best surfer is the one who is having the most fun," and we couldn't agree more.

Fun Fact: In 2003, Gia was the national champion at the US Surfing Federation (USSF) competition held in Oceanside, California. She secured first place in the girls' shortboard division, surpassing professional surfers Leilani Gryde and Bethany Hamilton to claim the national championship title!  

If you are looking for electrical services on the West side of the Big Island, check out Aloha Electrical Services at www.alohaelectricalservices.com for superb service by our local friends!