At Big Wave Company, we know the power of surfing. Our yearly donation to ‘Waves for Change’ ensures that this program is accessible to children who need it.

As surfers ourselves, we have experienced the therapeutic power of the sport first hand. Waves for Change (W4C), a South African non-profit organization founded in 2011, provides mental health services through surfing. They give 2500 children in 43 under-resourced South African communities weekly Surf Therapy programs. The program also provides employment opportunities for young South Africans as Surf Coaches.

The positive impact of the evidence-based Surf Therapy programs is evident. Children (aged 10 to 16 years) improve their ability to self-regulate and their overall well-being. Surf coaches (aged 18 to 25) report improved self-regulation after successfully completing a program. Senior Surf Coaches complete a mentoring journey (during their second year at W4C) and move on from W4C to other opportunities.

Liaan Ali, a Senior Surf Coach at the East London site, shares his story:

“Since 2021, my journey with Waves for Change has been transformative. I’ve pushed past my comfort zone, learned to hold space for others, and embraced the opportunity to speak openly about mental health. The work we do with our participants has not only helped them but has also been instrumental in my own mental health journey.”

Looking to the future, W4C is focused on strengthening existing relationships and working to develop the skills of young people. All of this is intended to have a long-term impact on the well-being of South Africa’s children and adolescents.