Mario Ordoñez-Calderón

Surfer

Mario Ordoñez-Calderón is an Indigenous Mayan, Navy Veteran, surfer, and community advocate dedicated to advancing climate justice and equitable access to nature. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Un Mar de Colores, a nonprofit based in San Diego County, he leads transformative programs that connect underrepresented youth to the ocean through surf therapy, environmental education, and mentorship.

Mario serves on California’s inaugural Environmental Justice Advisory Board for the Ocean Protection Council, where he uplifts equity-focused policies for coastal resilience. His leadership helped secure national recognition for the Tijuana River as one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers and has expanded pathways for youth leadership in climate action across the U.S.–Mexico border region.

Guided by his belief in the ocean as a catalyst for healing and stewardship, Mario blends athleticism and advocacy to inspire the next generation of climate leaders and ensure that coastlines remain places of belonging, resilience, and opportunity.