The New CS EMEA Director
Dave and his Cape Town surf crew.
We are absolutely thrilled to announce the appointment of our new EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) Area Director, David Van Vuuren. Hailing from Cape Town, South Africa but currently based in Winchester, UK, David is a man who came to know Jesus through a life-changing encounter in the rural KwaZulu-Natal bush in South Africa. We ran a few questions past David so we could get to know him a bit better. Also drop him a follow on the gram @davidvanvuuren27 so you can see what the man is up to!
Tell us a bit about yourself and where you currently live.
I'm 55 years old and currently live in Winchester, UK, although my roots are in Cape Town, South Africa. I run my own business focused on renewable energy and home heating solutions. I'm married to Sue, a strength and conditioning coach who keeps me fit, and together we have two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Kate.
How did you come to know and follow Jesus?
I had a powerful and life-changing encounter with God when I was 26. I was in the rural Natal bush when God showed up in a way that was undeniably real. It was one of those moments you look back on and know without a doubt that you’ve experienced the presence of God. That encounter marked the beginning of my walk with Jesus.
What role will you be filling at Christian Surfers?
I'll be serving as the EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) Area Director.
DVV and his beautiful wife, Sue.
What led you to this role?
In October 2024, while on a business trip in Australia, I stumbled across a Wild at Heart podcast featuring Brett Davis. I had never heard of Christian Surfers before, but something about that conversation stirred my heart deeply. I knew instantly that I had to get involved. I couldn’t believe I hadn’t come across CS earlier—and I began wondering how many other surfers out there were also missing this connection. It was a moment of calling.
In what ways have you seen or experienced Christian Surfers in action?
Seeing some of the online posts from the Jesus Longboard Classic here in the UK. It was amazing to see people wearing rash vests boldly displaying Jesus’ name. I was able to speak to one of the competitors afterwards—he was absolutely stoked about the event and the positive, welcoming vibe. It was a great example of faith and community in action.
Tell us a bit about your surfing journey and your local surf spot now.
I've been trying to surf since I was 13—and I’m fairly certain I surf a lot better in my imagination than I do in real life! At 55, my boards have definitely gotten longer and wider. I love water sports in general, so when I’m not surfing, I’m often out windsurfing. And if the water's flat and the wind’s gone—then it’s time to go fishing. What I call my local spot here in the UK is a long way from where I live, it’s a 2 hour drive, but Croyde when it is on is certainly worth it, next week I have a few sessions booked in the wave pool too. When we lived in Cape Town, Strand was my local break, I miss my surfing bru’s from there loads.
DVV laying down a meaty backhand hook.
What does it mean to be a Christian Surfer?
For me, it's less about the label and more about the lifestyle. What does it look like to be a Christian in the surf? It means bringing light, truth, and the love of Jesus into every lineup. It looks like smiling at others, not jostling for the inside wave, and being open to conversation. Every interaction we have—on the beach, in the water, or in life—is a chance to reflect Christ’s character.
Your favourite verse and why you love it.
John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
This verse reminds me of the abundant life Jesus offers. Not just survival—but fullness, purpose, and joy. It’s a powerful truth to live by.
A cool story of how CS has helped change a life or bring someone to Christ.
During a recent CSUK prayer meeting, we heard from a guy who had encountered someone from Christian Surfers on the beach. That encounter led him to give his life to Jesus. Since then, CS has become his community—a tribe where he feels he belongs, where he can talk openly about his faith and grow spiritually. It’s stories like these that remind me why this mission matters.
What’s next for you, and how can CS pray for you?
This is all still new territory for me, and I’d really value prayer as I step into this role. Please pray that God would guide me to use my gifts effectively, to make a meaningful impact with the people I work alongside, and to show me new and creative ways to reach the wider surfing community with the message of Jesus.