Waves for Change

Waves For Change (W4C) is led by a team of mental health and social service professionals who co-designed the evidence-based Take 5 Model to deliver a preventative mental wellbeing solution through surf therapy, supporting children and adolescents from under-resourced communities in South Africa. Utilising the second window of neurological opportunity to effectively build resilience, confidence, and mental well-being in our youth – empowered by the transformative potential of surfing, our evidence-based program helps participants manage toxic stress and develop emotional resilience through weekly surf sessions. W4C trains local community members to provide surf therapy services to referred at-risk youth. The W4C programmes improve the wellbeing and mental health of vulnerable youth, improving behaviour and learning outcomes whilst increasing access to social support in some of South Africa's most volatile, unstable communities. Each session includes safe transportation, all necessary surf equipment, psycho-social support from trained coaches, and a nourishing meal. Over the course of one year, children engage in activities that teach them emotional regulation, build social connections, and provide a safe space to heal and grow. W4C is committed to providing community-based Each session includes safe transportation, all necessary surf equipment, psycho-social support from trained coaches, and a nourishing meal. Over the course of one year, children engage in activities that teach them emotional regulation, build social connections, and provide a safe space to heal and grow. W4C is committed to providing community-based mental health care that is accessible, fun, and impactful. By using surfing as a medium, we empower kids with the tools they need to cope with trauma, violence, and adversity.