Today we’d like to introduce you to Adriel Mendes
Hi Adriel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hailing from São Paulo, the birthplace of surf legends Gabriel Medina and Felipe Toledo, I’m a proud Brazilian native and the product of an interracial couple. My parents initiated and continue to oversee a thriving accounting business, which fostered a business-savvy environment at home and ignited my entrepreneurial spirit.
In Brazil, I successfully created, established, and managed five diverse businesses, ranging from construction and pizza establishments to liquor and prescription eyewear stores. Along the way, I hired and managed a team of over 40 individuals, gaining a deep understanding of the essential skills needed in the business world.
In 2019, I made the transition to the USA, where I’m now driven to perpetuate my lifelong dedication to entrepreneurship. Through BLACK SURFER CREW (BSC) I’m committed to contributing to business growth in my new environment and continuing to make an impact.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Moving to the USA in 2019 was a significant change, and starting from scratch in a new country came with its own set of challenges. Adapting to a different culture and business environment took time, and building a network of contacts in a place where I was relatively unknown was tough.
One of the biggest struggles was getting BLACK SURFER CREW (BSC) off the ground. The idea of creating a community focused on diversity and inclusion in surfing was powerful, but turning that vision into reality wasn’t easy. We faced skepticism from people who didn’t see the need for what we were doing, and there were moments when resources were scarce, and progress seemed slow.
There were also personal challenges, like balancing my passion for BSC with the need to support myself and my family in a new environment. At times, it felt like the odds were stacked against us, but my commitment to the cause and the support from like-minded individuals kept me going. Each struggle only strengthened my resolve to make BSC a success and create something that truly makes a difference.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about BLACK SURFER CREW?
As a dynamic community/lifestyle brand, we’re dedicated to building a global surf community that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. Our mission is to foster an inclusive surf culture that transcends borders, promoting multiculturalism. Through our crew, we aim to create an inviting lifestyle where everyone feels a sense of belonging and connection to the waves that bind us together and be the leading surf lifestyle brand that celebrates diversity and inclusion, inspiring a global community of surfers to ride the waves with confidence and pride.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’m still in the process of finding a mentor and building my network. Right now, I’m focused on attending events, engaging online, and reaching out to people I admire. I know it takes time, but I’m committed to putting myself out there and learning from others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blacksurfercrew.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacksurfercrew?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@blacksurfercrew?_t=8pO1cwr7PrO&_r=1
Image Credits
Phillip Hernandez / Romell Tabosa / John Slavin
