Interview with writer, surfer, environmentalist and TBBS friend Sophie Hellyer
Can you give us a quick intro about yourselves?
I am a surfer and writer living on the west coast of Ireland. I choose to stay on the fringes, living and travelling remotely. When I was younger I won British and English surfing titles before going on to study an honours degree in Marketing. I now spend my time between writing and producing but I've never lost touch with the core values that drive my love for the ocean. I’m passionate about protecting our oceans and try to use my social platforms to create greater environmental awareness.
Sri Lanka. Photo by @ricarbravo for @torqsurfboards
When did you hear about The Bamboo Brush Society?
I’ve been using bamboo toothbrushes for years but I can’t remember when I first made the change, why is obvious. I think I stumbled across the Bamboo Brush Society on Instagram.
What do you think of the Bamboo toothbrush?
As a surfer I spend most of my days on the beach, and the amount of plastic washed up and floating around is seriously heartbreaking. I remember reading one billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away every year in the US alone, ending up in landfills and our oceans. Brushing with bamboo is an obvious, easy solution.
Iceland. Photo by @jamesbowdown
You have travelled a lot around the world, what is the best spot you have brushed your teeth yet?
I remember brushing them in Norway in front of the most epic vista, and I love waking up and brushing my teeth at sea, whether in Scotland or the Maldives.
What project you are working on this year are you most excited about?
I have so many projects going on at the moment its hard to choose, I just got back from a women's surf and yoga retreat with ticket to ride, and I’m about to head off to the Canaries with Talisker for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.
If you would be in charge of taking care of our beloved planet tomorrow? Which 4 persons would you pick to help you lead? (can be anyone in the world)
David Attenbourgh
Emma Watson
Caitlin Moran
Fergal Smith
#thisiswhereibrush Sophie Hellyer. Photo by @james_aiken
Tell us your best travel story?
I went to Ireland for a 4 day work trip, missed my flight home and I’ve been there nearly 4 years. Whoops.
Any books, documentaries, films or series you lately watched and like to recommend?
Blue Planet 2 is unbelievable. The most incredible thing I’ve ever seen.
Last question… What is the number one place you like to go travel to?
Home to the west coast of Ireland to see my dog Conrad.
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Make sure to check out Sophie's
website and follow her adventures on instagram.
