Empowering local mentors to address mental health stigma and provide vital services to youth.
Waves for Change, an organisation dedicated to empowering youth in underserved communities, is making a significant impact by offering mental health support and a sense of belonging to children in need.
In communities harassed by violence and instability, Waves for Change provides a safe haven for kids to experience their childhood, express themselves, and develop their potential.
They are introduced to surf therapy, which helps them cope with stress, build healthy relationships, and make positive decisions for their future.
Alice W. Toe is a trainer for the Waves for Change program. In her role, she ensures that coaches fully understand and accurately apply the organization's curriculum and guidelines. Additionally, she evaluates the quality of the program, assessing its impact on the children involved.
‘’Our mentors guide the children in developing these skills, creating an environment of support and growth,’’ says, Alice Toe
The organisation’s partnership with MAF has been instrumental in expanding its reach and impact.
Our mentors guide the children in developing these skills, creating an environment of support and growth.
"In the past, traveling by road was very difficult in achieving our goals, but our partnership with MAF Liberia has made a huge difference. The national surf competition was something we found difficult to attend on time, but with MAF flights, this year’s competition was successful," says Alice Toe.
This collaboration not only ensures timely travel for events but also allows the organisation to bring in equipment and resources to locations beyond Monrovia.
"MAF brought life to our organisation, flying equipment, guests, and coaches outside of the capital. It is our greatest happiness to have quick access to our destination," says Alice Toe.
Emmanuel Portee, a participant in the Waves for Change programme, recently achieved success by securing second place in the National Surfing Competition held in Buchanan.
MAF brought life to our organisation, flying equipment, guests, and coaches outside of the capital. It is our greatest happiness to have quick access to our destination.
"The organisation Waves for Change is a very good one," he says. Waves for change helped me develop my mind and create an avenue to speak freely," says Emmanuel.
Emmanuel's story is a testament to the transformative power of Waves for Change. Joining the organisation at the age of nine, he was initially unable to speak well. The supportive environment provided by the organisation helped him develop his speaking skills and confidence.
Mrs. Toe shares an inspiring story about a young boy who touched her heart. "We had a participant who was considered a 'dumb boy,' only making sounds at age eight," she recalls. "He would visit the organisation site early in the morning, naked on the beach, to pick up almond, after viewing him for a while, we incorporated him into the program."
The coaches and peers at Waves for Change helped the boy find his voice. "Interestingly, he didn’t know his name during roll call," Mrs. Toe says. "Any name pronounced; he was answerable to it. But to make him part of us, we always gave a thumbs up, and it cheered him a lot. His family appreciated the organisation, and that’s what brought out my joy since I joined."
‘’With stories of transformation and hope, Waves for Change is a beacon of light for communities in need, inspiring a new generation to rise above adversity and achieve their full potential.’’ Says Alice Toe.
Waves for change continues to empower young individuals like Emmanuel and many others, providing them with the tools to overcome challenges and build brighter futures. Through surf therapy, mentorship, and community support, the organisation is making a lasting impact on the lives of children and their communities.