MAKING WAVES
Our Team
Get to know the team
Samantha
President - Founder
Hi! I’m Samantha Schoenborn, the founder of Making Waves FL, a volunteer organization that serves as a platform for members to get involved with their community and help support other charitable organizations. I am a 15-year-old student-athlete who loves helping others and wants to make a difference in our community.
As a 9th grader during Covid, I realized it could be challenging to find volunteer opportunities and to gain real insight into those opportunities that were available. As a result, I thought it would be helpful to blog about my volunteer experiences for others and draw more attention to various charitable organizations. With that idea, I launched Making Waves FL in June of 2021 to attract and motivate other teen volunteers. I also wanted to show others how rewarding and fun it can be to volunteer and to work together as a team.
As a competitive swimmer for Saint Andrew’s Swim Club and the South Florida Heat, I have learned a lot about hard-work, commitment, and leadership. I want to inspire others to lead by giving back to their community. I am very motivated and always looking for ways to improve myself and help others. At 14, I became CPR certified as I believe it is important to have the knowledge and skills to stay calm when someone is in need. Additionally, I am a diligent student at Broward Virtual School (BVS) and a member of the National Honor Society. When I am not in school, swimming or volunteering, I enjoy going to the beach, hanging out with friends, and spending time with my family and my three dogs.
Evan
Vice President - Co-Founder
I’m Evan Schoenborn, a 13-year-old student-athlete and co-founder of Making Waves FL. I am currently in the 8th grade at Broward Virtual School (BVS) and a member of the National Junior Honor Society. Additionally, I play travel soccer for Parkland Soccer Club. I am very dedicated and work hard at everything I do to have success in school and on the field.
I think Making Waves FL is a great way to get involved with my community by supporting many different organizations and sharing the experiences with others. I want to give back to my community and inspire others to do the same. At 12, I became CPR certified. Doing so will help me be confident and helpful during serious situations where others may need medical assistance. Hobbies I enjoy include playing other sports and video games.
Gioia
Team Leader
I’m Gioia Balzano a member of the Making Waves Fl Volunteer Team. I’m a student-athlete and I love helping others.
I enjoy participating in school clubs and organizations as a student of Broward Virtual School. As an officer of the National Honor Society and American Sign Language Club, I enjoy contributing to my school and working with other students.
My great passion is swimming. By competing for my club Eagle Aquatics and high school team South Florida Heat, I have learned the importance of dedication, sacrifice and hard work.
I am so honored to be a part of this volunteer team. By performing acts of service, we are making a positive impact in our community and our lives.
