‘It’s been a place where she is not seen for her difficulties, but for her courage, determination and joy.’
Hema loves the water, but before she joined The Wave Project, access to water-based activities was limited. Surf Therapy gave her a supportive community and the chance to build much needed friendships. It was a safe space to thrive and a place to be seen beyond her disabilities.
Hema’s dad explains: ‘So many activities or environments can unintentionally focus on what young people can’t do. The Wave Project was completely different. From the beginning, she was treated as somebody capable, included and valued.’
He continues: ‘As a parent, one of the biggest things I have noticed is the sense of belonging and confidence [The Wave Project] has given her. [They] created a space where she could simply enjoy being a young person, without being defined by her disabilities.’
Surfing itself has had a huge impact, with Hema experiencing the powerful benefits of being in the water, keeping active, getting outdoors and pushing herself, all in a safe and supportive environment.
‘Hema absolutely loves movement and stimulation, and surfing gives her an outlet that supports her physical health, concentration, emotional regulation and confidence all at once. It has honestly been one of the most positive and meaningful opportunities she has had.’
On completion of the 6-week Surf Therapy programme, young people have the opportunity to join The Wave Project’s Surf Club, something Hema has embraced wholeheartedly, come rain or shine!
‘She genuinely cannot get to Surf Club fast enough each month. Even through the freezing winter weather, she has been excited to attend and be part of the community. Watching her continue to show up, challenge herself and grow in confidence has been incredibly emotional as a parent.’
Surf Therapy uses the joy of surfing, the healing power of the ocean and other blue spaces, and connections with others to build confidence, resilience and trust, and the consistency of support Hema received from our team in Scotland – including our volunteer Surf Mentors – was key.
‘One of the things that has made such a difference for Hema is the consistency of the people involved. Familiar faces and trusted relationships are hugely important to her. Ruairidh and Hannah have both played such a positive role, and Hema built an especially strong bond with Hannah as her one-to-one support mentor. That consistency, patience and encouragement gave Hema the confidence to fully engage and keep coming back.’
But Hema’s Surf Therapy story doesn’t end here. She has just completed her first session as a volunteer Surf Mentor, an opportunity for Surf Therapy participants her dad has loved from the start.
‘We loved from the outset […] the opportunity for growth. Now, she’s not only surfing, she’s also helping the team to mentor other young people. The circularity of The Wave Project is unique.’
Project Coordinator Ru describes Hema’s enthusiasm and commitment to The Wave Project: ‘Hema has recently joined our volunteer team, helping some of the younger Surf Club members at sessions. She brings so much humour and good energy to the team, and the surfers love spending time in the water with her.’
He dad continues: ‘For young people like Hema, having opportunities not only to receive support but eventually contribute and support others is incredibly powerful.’
‘The Wave Project is about far more than surfing. It’s about inclusion, confidence, wellbeing, resilience, community and giving young people experiences that genuinely change how they see themselves.
‘For Hema, it has been a place where she is seen not for her difficulties, but for her courage, determination and joy – and as a parent, that means everything. When I look back at what The Wave Project has done for Hema, it makes my heart sing for joy. We are truly blessed to be part of this special community.’
