Bruna Kajiya is 2024's Women’s Freestyle World Champion!

Fresh off an extraordinary season, Bruna has claimed her fifth freestyle kiteboarding world title, secured the Women’s Rider of the Year award, and wowed the world with the Best Freestyle Trick of the Year. Let’s dive into her journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and what’s next for this trailblazing athlete.
First off, congratulations on your fifth freestyle kiteboarding world title! How does this title compare to your previous ones in terms of personal significance and the challenges you faced to achieve it?
Thank you! For me, this world title was a way to show people that it’s always possible to aim higher, no matter what goals you set or how big your vision is. In the process, I also reminded myself of that same message.
Kiteboarding has evolved a lot over the years. As a seasoned athlete, how do you adapt to changes in the sport, and what trends do you see shaping its future?
The sport’s constant evolution is what makes it interesting and fun to keep doing it. For freestyle, I have been enjoying the combos a lot. They open so many possibilities for trick combinations. It feels like a whole new level just opened up, and we get to explore it. This creative aspect of kiteboarding is one of the things I love so much about the sport.

Winning the Female Rider of the Year is a huge accomplishment. What do you think sets you apart as a rider and role model in the kiteboarding community?
To win this prize was the cherry on top this year. One thing is to be a good competitor and win events, another is to be able to inspire others through my riding and how I lead my career. That for me is priceless.
I feel what led me to win this prize is the consistency in which I have worked, dedication, and hard work, not only for one or two years but throughout my career. The message has always been the same, it’s bigger than just being a rider, it is about opening space for women in the sport, putting it all out there, and giving my very best every single day.
Your award for the Best Freestyle Trick of the Year is well-deserved! Firstly, what trick was it, and what does winning this award mean to you?
This was an interesting turn of events because I initially planned to submit a different trick for this category. Originally, the BS315 was supposed to be my entry, but I missed the submission deadline since I was competing at the time. Instead, the combo ended up being submitted, and I’m so glad it did! I’ve been having so much fun with combos, and usually the fun thing doesn’t win prizes, so it’s really cool that this one did.
Competing at the highest level requires immense mental resilience. How do you handle pressure, setbacks, and the expectations that come with being a multiple-time world champion?
Taking things one day at a time really helps me, and I try to view everything through a positive lens. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, so even when setbacks occur, I trust that they’re leading me toward something better.

As a trailblazer in freestyle kiteboarding, what advice do you have for young women aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Just take that first step. The end goal can feel intimidating, and many people don’t even try because of it. What matters most is starting, once you do, patience will help you find your footing and work toward your goal. Also, stay true to yourself. Make sure you’re following your own path, the one that feels right for you, not one shaped by external ideas or expectations.
With so many incredible achievements already under your belt, what’s next for you? Do you have any new goals, projects, or ambitions for the future of your career and the sport?
I always strive to keep pushing boundaries, reaching higher, and showcasing new possibilities. My goal is to give my absolute best to the sport, be a positive role model for future generations, and keep the stoke alive. I have to say, I think I’m pretty good at that last one!