Women’s surfing has undergone significant evolution in recent years, with a growing emphasis on inclusivity, creativity, and community. Among the emerging events that exemplify these values is the Diva Cup, a grassroots competition that captures the true spirit of the sport—fun, empowerment, and camaraderie.
In a world where surf contests often prioritize elite performances and stiff competition, the Diva Cup stands out as a refreshing celebration of women’s surfing. Following a successful inaugural event in 2023, the Diva Cup returns this year to the Central Coast of California, with the competition set to take place on November 30th in Cayucos. The event, which combines surfing with a mission of empowerment, benefits the Femme Futures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women’s education, mentorship, and access to essential resources. Though registration for participants is closed, the event promises to offer a vibrant atmosphere for spectators, and tickets are still available for the afterparty, DIVATOPIA.
The Diva Cup was founded by Kyra Joseph, an artist, DJ, surfer, and passionate activist who has been instrumental in shaping the event’s identity. Kyra, originally from the Central Coast, was raised in a surfing family—her father, Michael Joseph, was a member of the renowned Windansea Surf Club, while her mother, Miranda Joseph, was one of California’s pioneering female surfers. Miranda’s competitive achievements came long before women’s professional surfing existed, paving the way for the next generation of female surfers.
Kyra’s upbringing was steeped in surf culture. She spent her childhood traveling along the Pacific Coast with her family, familiarizing herself with legendary surf spots like Steamer Lane, Rincon, and Malibu. Along with her younger brother, Brian, Kyra became an active member of the Windansea Surf Club. While women’s participation in the sport has significantly grown over the years, Kyra still recalls the days when her mother would win a contest, only to be awarded prizes meant for men, such as men’s wetsuits or trophies featuring male surfers. These experiences have only fueled Kyra’s passion for creating spaces where women can thrive in their own right.
It was this drive to elevate women’s surfing that led Kyra to found the Diva Cup. “I started the event because, after moving back to the Central Coast, I was amazed by the number of women out in the lineup,” she recalls. “I thought, ‘We could literally have our own competition,’ and here we are!”
The Diva Cup’s significance goes beyond the competition itself. The event serves as a platform for celebrating women’s empowerment, both in and out of the water. Last year’s event exceeded expectations, with nearly 100 participants signing up within three weeks of registration opening. “It was a testament to how much the surfing community values and supports this kind of event,” Kyra says.
Art and creativity play a central role in the event’s ethos, and this year, the Diva Cup introduced an open art submission, which garnered enthusiastic participation from across California. The winning design, a disco-inspired piece by Santa Barbara-based artist Jamie Seabrook Stryker, captures the vibrant, cowgirl-surfer vibe of the Central Coast. “I’ve always loved the female surf and art culture tied to the Diva Cup,” says Stryker, who recently launched her own art business. “It’s such a thrill to be part of something so empowering.”
But perhaps the most impactful aspect of the Diva Cup is its partnership with the Femme Futures Foundation, which serves as the event’s charitable partner. The foundation’s mission is to empower women of all ages and backgrounds through mentorship, surfing, and art. This year, the Diva Cup will host a feminine hygiene product drive to support women experiencing homelessness, further extending the event’s positive impact beyond the surf community.
Femme Futures Foundation board member Joanna Edmison, who also serves as the event’s visual director, emphasizes the importance of collaboration. “It’s amazing to see so many different people coming together for a common cause. It’s not just about surfing—it’s about uplifting women and creating meaningful change.”
While the Diva Cup is a celebration of women’s surfing, it also honors the male allies who support the event. Kyra is quick to acknowledge the contributions of the men who have helped bring the event to life. “We’re grateful to all the male allies who have supported the Diva Cup and made this event possible. It truly takes a community.”
As the sun sets over Cayucos, the day’s festivities will continue at DIVATOPIA, the official afterparty where competitors, spectators, and the local community will gather to celebrate the event’s success. With good music, good vibes, and a sense of shared purpose, DIVATOPIA promises to be the perfect way to cap off what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable day of surfing, art, and empowerment.
At its core, the Diva Cup is more than just a competition—it’s a movement. It’s about creating a space where women’s surfing can thrive, where community is prioritized, and where everyone can have fun. In an era where surfing events are evolving and diversifying, the Diva Cup stands as a shining example of what’s possible when passion, creativity, and empowerment come together.
As Kyra puts it, “At the end of the day, it’s not about who wins—it’s about how we make everyone feel. And in that sense, the Diva Cup has already won.”
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