Representing Team Possibilities: Brandino Verhaak


We go way back with Brandino. Not coincidentally, he is one of the first to join Team Possibilities. A boy raised by the forces of nature, I've heard people say. I guess they're just finding a logical explanation for his love for the four elements (not fire, don't worry).

 

He is not just a talent and an icon in the surf world, he also manages to capture the beauty of nature in a single photo, often combining the two. In this interview we find out more about this mysterious boy, his ties to Mother Earth, his passion in life, his financial situation, favourite food and if he even likes our brand. Let's hear what my good friend has to say...

 

Brandino verhaak surf waves

 

Hi Brandino, what's up? It's good to see you. This might feel unnatural but I'm going to interview you about you, ready?

"Let's go for it. Yeah so, I'm a bit stressed right now. Monday I got back from Paris and now I have to work on a big deadline for my study. But, to be honest, that's what makes things fun. I do my thing in the weekend and work hard in the week."

I'm pretty sure we're going to the same party tomorrow. Tomorrow is a Wednesday...

"Yeah tomorrow is an exception, sadly"

Terrible. Anyway, tell be about these trips. I've seen you travelling a lot, do you even have a home?

"At the moment there's just a lots of options to travel, or should I say possibilities. Lately I say yes to everything that makes me happy. This unfortunately also makes me broke. But I always find a way. I guess I live month to month. I get a little job here and there to support myself."

And your favourite places in the world till now?

"My favourites will always be the South West coast of France and Bordeaux. That's where I grew up. There I can relax and speak French, hang out on the beach, surf and smell those nice trees they have there. I'll take you some day."

Hold up, you like to smell the French trees?

"Yeah you know those, uhh... Pins in French. Uhh, pine trees. Yeah, those smell good."

wave shred brandino verhaak legendary surferboy

Of course... So tell us about your other passions, what else makes you tick?

"I love to surf. Not just for fun or physical health, but to clear my head. Whenever I'm on my surf board, I feel as if I'm alone in the world, lying on this huge surface of nothing. All your daily issues disappear. Also I keep myself busy for hours a day with doing surf research on Youtube, Windy and Windguru."
"Photography is also a passion. Sadly, I find Amsterdam, where I live, not very photogenic. So it ends up being a hobby mainly for trips and holidays. But, lately I've started to shoot with analog camera's for photoshoots and festivals in The Netherlands. This mixed up things and makes it more interesting. So, hit me up if you're looking for someone!"

 

And tell me about your photographer name, Scatti Di Ron. To me this just sounds kinda strange...

"Scatti Di Ron means Photos by Ronnie in Italian. Italian because I was born there and their food is fucking amazing. And Ronnie because that's a my nickname some people use." 

That makes sense now. So, if you had to choose two items to take to a deserted island would it be a surf board and a camera?

"Definitely a surf board and... let me think... Oh, an Italian cheffin! A fun one, maybe even good looking if that's allowed?"

Does it get any better? So anyway, I'm guessing studying is then just something to make the parents happy then...

"Well no actually. I'd love to combine my passion and study [Future Planet Studies and Environmental Geography]. Giving advise to organisations around the world on environmental challenges, natural disasters and adaptive cities sounds like something I'd love to do. Especially if I can combine the trips with what I feel passionate about."

I hope it works out my friend! Luckily we're still young for now [the interviewer trying to escape adult responsibilities]. Or did you feel professional and grown up when we asked you to be part of Team Possibilities? Are we your first sponsor?

"Yes, my first sponsor! Being a part of Team Possibilities feels amazing. It's an honour and my heart is happy."

What comes to your mind when you think of our brand or the word possibilities in general?

"The first word that comes to mind is friendship. I see your brand as a group of friends that have built something to help each other out and create opportunities. It stimulates people to pursue what they love to do. This brings out a different, inspiring side in people. For me this is saying yes to things I love and seeing the world together with my mates, which we've [Team Possibilities] being doing a lot. Sadly, being broke together is also a possibility..."

Wise words Brandino, wise words... But this has been great. You're good at being interviewed, who knew. Any life-changing thoughts you want to share with the people?

"Yeah, I read something I liked recently... If someone falls, don't look down on them, but help them up. I liked that. And also, of course, never forget to call your mum!."

Good motto's to live by! Thanks a lot Brandino! I'll see you tomorrow.

"Yeah, of course, see you soon."

 Brandino paris the possibilities clothing

 

 


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