Bournemouth, UK — A community-driven fundraising event titled Ocean Minded will take place on Saturday, May 17, in support of the mental health charity Dorset Mind. The event, organised by local water wellness group Water Babes, aims to raise awareness of the powerful connection between water-based activities and mental wellbeing.
Set to be held at Blend on the Hill in Bournemouth from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the evening will feature guest speakers, charity representatives, informative stalls, and a raffle with prizes donated by local organisations and businesses. Tickets are priced at £10, with all proceeds going directly to Dorset Mind.
Amber Hall, the founder of Water Babes, is hosting the event in memory of her father, Johan Chardon, who died by suicide in 2021. “This event is about creating a supportive space and highlighting how the ocean and water sports can offer therapeutic benefits to mental health,” Hall said.
A number of high-profile speakers from the water sports and wellness communities will take part, including Sandy Clunas, professional windsurfing presenter and host of The After Hours Lounge podcast. He will be joined by iQFOiL Olympic hopeful Elena Sandera and somatic yoga instructor Caroline Radway, who specialises in stand-up paddleboard yoga.
Representatives from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and The Good Grief Trust will also be in attendance to offer information and support.
The raffle will include prizes from The Watersports Academy, Flymount, The Project Climbing Centre, and several other supporters. Organisers expect the evening to draw a wide range of attendees from the local community, water sports enthusiasts, and mental health advocates alike.
Tickets are available for purchase via Eventbrite.
