SURFISTAS
SURFISTAS was developed collaboratively by Meagan Enriquez and Christina Ienna, emerging from shared conversations around surfing and the power of women-led communities. The documentary took shape through mutual curiosity and a desire to explore Canadian stories of immigrant identity, women in sports, and the power of sisterhood within the world of freshwater surfing on the Great Lakes.
When Meagan Enriquez and Christina Ienna recognized their shared interest in documenting the uniqueness of freshwater surfers, the collaboration felt instinctive. Approaching the project as a first-time director, Meagan formed a personal connection with Robin rooted in their shared identities as Filipino-Canadians and surfers. This relationship helped ground the film as a character-driven story, allowing the narrative to unfold through lived experience and mutual trust.
Christina’s extensive background in documentary filmmaking, combined with her deep love of the outdoors, shaped the film’s visual language. Her approach is immersive and attentive, prioritizing the small, human moments that revealed authenticity, resilience and connection in both Robin’s journey and the growth of Lake Surfistas.
Director. Meagan Enriquez
is a Filipino-Canadian, first-time director making her debut with this film. With a background as an Art Director for leading advertising agencies, Publicis and We Are Social, she has worked on campaigns for brands such as Samsung, Infiniti and TurboTax. While this documentary marks the beginning of her directing experience, Meagan brings a strong sense of intention, curiosity and openness to collaboration.
Director of Photography/Executive Producer. Christina Ienna
is a Italian-Canadian award-winning cinematographer and filmmaker. She has extensive experience in documentary, narrative and commercial production. She serves on the Board of the Canadian Society of Cinematographers and Co-Chairs the Education Committee, creating educational initiatives, workshops and mentoring opportunities for emerging cinematographers.