Live the Dream

As a youth, Bryan Jennings, founder and director of Walking on Water, a non-profit faith based ministry to the surf community, fell in love with the sensation of waves beneath his feet and the sun and wind on his back. Jennings began surfing at the age of eight and by fourteen he was competing in and winning local competitions. It was then that he realized he had a true talent for the sport and perhaps even a future. It was at that same time in his life that a local professional surfer took him on his first surf trip. That trip turned out to have a lasting effect on Jenning’s life and his dream to lead and mentor other young surfers came to life.
Jenning’s vision began with a surf camp in 1995 comprised of ten youth and has since developed into a global outreach organization. Walking On Water hosts outreach events, international short-term mission trips, and speaking engagements to more deeply impact the world at large. Every summer, Walking On Water surf camps provide opportunities for students between the ages of 11 and 18 to learn surfing in a faith based environment.
In addition to surf camps, Walking on Water is perhaps best known for its surf films which include, Noah’s Arc, The Seven Mile Miracle, Heart of a Soul Surfer, Changes, Follow the Leader, The Outsiders, Can’t Keep Me Down, Promised Land, and Walking on Water. The latest movie, Noah’s Arc, had over 150,000 people in live attendance, which possibly makes it the largest tour of a grassroots surf movie. East Surf Magazine called it the “Best performance by an east-sider, tightest editing, and best cinematography.” People of all ages, both surfers and non-surfers, have connected with the messages conveyed through these films.

In March of 2009, the team at Live the Dream had the opportunity to spend time with Bryan Jennings and the crew at Walking On Water. The experience was nothing short of incredible. We learned that Californian’s end all sentences with “yeah?” And when the waves are good employees and employers hit the surf before clocking into their jobs that day. I think it would behoove the rest of the country to adapt to this policy immediately. Jennings and his team demonstrate a true sense of responsibility and eagerness to use their talents and dreams to change lives. This was evident as we witnessed dozens of volunteers donating their time, knowledge and resources to the organization. Whether it be in camps or film premiers, Walking on Water is without a doubt, is cause worth supporting and Live the Dream is proud to be connected to this man and his mission.

Jennings has surfed with and mentored professionals such as, three-time world champion surfer Tom Curren, teen shark attack survivor Bethany Hamilton, and top professional surfers C.J. and Damien Hobgood.

Bryan and his wife Korin, live, love, dream and surf in Laguna Beach California. For more information on Bryan Jennings and Walking on Water please visit http://www.walkingonwater.com and be sure to attend a film premier near you!