Ocean Minded Fundraiser

On 17th May 2025, we ran Ocean Minded, a fundraising event for Dorset Mind that highlighted the connection between the ocean, watersports, and mental health. 

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.

I am hugely grateful to everyone involved in making this event a success. Thank you to the guest speakers, stalls, raffle prize donations, volunteers and everyone who attended or donated! I'd also like to say a huge thank you to Ben from Blend on the Hill, who kindly donated his space and offered constant enthusiasm for the event. Due to all your support, we raised a huge £1578 for Dorset Mind. 

Since the event, I have absolutely loved hearing everyone’s feedback and which moments resonated most with them. For me, all the hard work put in to organise this event was worth it, as my 14-year-old brother, Ollie, has been inspired to get in the water and has begun learning to windsurf. 

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

With 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.

Joined by:

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.

Prizes from 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, 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 Curchs, Vivida, Almond & Co, Arcade Belt, Flow watersports, Florence, Water Baby Jewellery and Poole Harbour Watersports.