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, I’m the founder of Water Babes and the organiser of Ocean Minded. Every year, I organise a fundraiser in memory of my Dad, Johan Chardon, who I lost to suicide 4 years ago. It is my way of grieving to create something positive in his memory.
The idea for Ocean Minded formed in the depths of winter, when I was struggling with my own mental health. During this period, the only moments of relief would be when I managed to get out on the water. I wanted to create an event where mental health could be discussed openly and that would hopefully inspire more people to experience the healing powers of the ocean.
I have been running Water Babes for the past 2 years now so it’s not new to me that I want to share my passion for watersports but this year really highlighted to me how important it can be for our mental health. Getting in the water has helped me through my darkest moments and really 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.