Anxious and unsure, Aaron struggled to get out of the car. But stepping into the water changed everything.
When Aaron first arrived at Surf Therapy in Dunbar, he didn’t even want to get out of the car. Like many young people referred to The Wave Project, he was feeling anxious, unsure and disconnected. Speaking to new people felt overwhelming but everything changed when he got into the water.
From that first session, Aaron felt welcomed and supported. His instructor helped him build trust in a way that felt safe and not forced. Every Tuesday, Aaron came back. And with each session, something shifted.
Aaron now reflects that surfing itself is only a small part of the experience. In his words, it’s about “10% surfing and 90% community.” It’s the encouragement from volunteers, the shared laughter and sense of belonging that create real change.
Over six weeks, he experienced what so many young people do:
- Growing confidence
- New friendships
- A sense of identity and purpose
Today, Aaron has come full circle by returning as a volunteer Surf Mentor, supporting young people who are just starting out their Surf Therapy journey.
In his first few months of volunteering, one moment stood out: a young participant arrived unable to engage or speak. But when Aaron joined him in the water, something shifted. Wave by wave, the young person’s confidence grew, running back with the board, eager to go again and catch their next wave. For Aaron, it was a reminder of just how transformative Surf Therapy can be. He knows, because he’s lived it.
Aaron reflects on how different his life might have been without The Wave Project. He believes he may have remained stuck in his room, without the friendships, confidence or direction. Instead, he surfs regularly, works within the surf community and plays an active role in helping others find their way.
