Ocean Minded: Where Watersports Meets Wellbeing

On 17th May 2025, something truly special happened on the Dorset coast. Ocean
Minded, a heartfelt fundraising event for Dorset Mind, brought together the healing
power of the ocean, the thrill of watersports, and the importance of mental health in
one unforgettable evening.

My name is Amber, founder of Water Babes and the organiser behind Ocean Minded. Every year, I host a fundraiser in memory of my dad, Johan Chardon, who I tragically lost to suicide four years ago. Creating this event is my way of honouring his memory – turning grief into something beautiful and life-affirming.

The idea for Ocean Minded was born in the cold, grey depths of winter, during a time when I was personally struggling with my mental health. The only moments I felt truly at peace were when I was out on the water. That experience sparked a vision: to create a space where people could talk openly about mental health and discover the ocean’s incredible ability to heal.

Running Water Babes for the past two years has been a journey of passion and
purpose. But this year’s event reminded me just how deeply watersports can impact
our wellbeing. Being in the water has carried me through my darkest days. It’s shaped my career, my friendships, and my outlook on life.

Ocean Minded was a vibrant celebration of community and courage. From inspiring guest speakers to buzzing stalls, generous raffle donations, and tireless volunteers, every single person played a part in making the day a success. A special shoutout goes to Ben from Blend on the Hill, who not only donated his space but brought boundless enthusiasm to the event.

Thanks to everyone’s incredible support, we raised £1,578 for Dorset Mind—funds
that will go directly toward supporting mental health initiatives in our community.

Since the event, I’ve been moved by the stories and feedback shared. One moment that touched me deeply? My 14-year-old brother, Ollie, felt inspired to take up windsurfing. Watching him step into the water for the first time reminded me why I do this. It’s not just about raising money. It’s about sparking change, one wave at a time.

If you would like to support Ocean Minded, you can donate to Dorset Mind here.

With thanks to:

Host:

Ben Seddon, local kitesurfer with a background in sports psychology and a deep rooted passion for encouraging mental positivity through sport. Founder of BAKE Saunas.

Special guests:

Sandy Clunas - Windsurf Freestyle Pro Tour & iQfoil presenter/commentator, Marketing Manager for Pitstop: The Pocket Coach for Men and podcast founder/host of The After Hours Lounge.
Elena Sandera - iQfoil athlete, campaigning for the 2028 Olympics in LA.
Caroline Radway - SUP Yoga and Somatic Yoga Instructor. Mum of 2 and lover of windsurf,
SUP surf & wingfoil.
Zoe Smith - Surfing England para surfer, current ISA world champion and British champion.

Stall Holders:

The RNLI - keeping you safe as you harness the healing power of the ocean.

The Good Grief Trust - providing support and advice to anyone who has lost someone they love.

BAKE saunas - a mobile sauna bringing restorative benefits right to your door.

Raffle prize donations:

Water Babes x The Watersports Academy, Flymount, The Project Climbing Centre, LifeJacket Skin, BASE Pilates , Robyn Moves Pilates, New Scientist Magazine, Deus Ex Machina, Pura Vida, Times Sunglasses, Shaka Surf, Brakeburn, Poole Harbour Watersports, Slowtide, Resurface, Union of Surf, South Coast Drifters, The Mysterious Bookcase, Happy Skateboarder School, Rewindsurf, Moulded Earplugs, Bro! Clothing, Red Equipment, Secret Circus, Vivida, Almond & Co, Arcade Belt, Flow watersports, Florence, Water Baby Jewellery and Poole Harbour Watersports.

Written by Amber Hall & Kelly-Anne Coley.