From the sushi counter to the skimboard, Gimel Dominic C. Corre has always found ways to stay close to the sea. Now 32, he works as an independent skimboard and surf instructor in southern Spain, where he has been living for the past five years. “I just finished working as an assistant sushi chef, but now I’m back to teaching surf since it’s the season where we live,” he shared with TGFM. For him, teaching others how to ride waves is more than a job—it’s a lifestyle built around freedom, joy, and connection.
Finding a new life through love and opportunity
Gimel’s journey abroad was not something he initially planned. He once considered a role as a construction supervisor in the Emirates, but life took him on a different path. He met his wife, an Italian-Moroccan, in Baler, Philippines, a place well-known for its surfing culture. The two reconnected in Spain, and when she became pregnant, they decided to build their life there. “Honestly, I never really planned to work abroad,” he admitted. “But we chose to settle in Spain for our family.”
While building a home in a foreign country, Gimel balanced his love for the ocean with restaurant jobs, first in Mallorca and later in southern Spain. No matter what role he took on, he kept the water at the center of his life. Recently, he placed 4th in the Spanish Skimboarding Championship, a proud achievement that reflects his continued dedication to the sport.
Challenges and dreams on the horizon
Adjusting to life in Spain was not always easy. Gimel admits the cultural differences and the language barrier were real struggles. “The biggest challenge has been missing my culture and the community spirit we have in the Philippines. Spain can feel more individualistic,” he explained. Thankfully, his wife helped him create a support system by starting a Filipino community group on Facebook, which gave him a sense of home away from home.
Despite the challenges, Gimel treasures the chance to grow in a multicultural setting. Teaching surf continues to bring him fulfillment, especially when he sees students find confidence in the water. “For me, it’s not just about sport, it’s about creating joy and connection,” he said.
Looking ahead, he hopes to establish a business crafting handmade surfboards in Spain, while one day expanding to the Philippines to create jobs. Through his brand Pisngahe, which he started in Northern Samar, he already designs both skimboards and surfboards as a local shaper—a dream he hopes to grow further. His advice to fellow Filipinos abroad is simple yet profound: “Be kind, stay open, and find your people. You may face disappointments, but there are always good people and good opportunities out there.”
