Surf the Greats is pleased to present Interplay — an exploration of the interconnectedness and interdependence of our surf communities. This series will investigate and discuss the complex interplay of the elements of our sport, culture and industry. It is an opportunity to come together to celebrate unique individuals to highlight and better understand their numerous contributions and distinctive perspectives. Our goal is to explore the reciprocity and adaptability of the varied facets of our surfing world featuring artists, athletes, makers, innovators, and pioneers. 

Our live online presentation and discussion will take place Sunday, April 12th at 5pm EST. We will be joined by Joel Pilgrim from Sydney, Australia. Joel, a mental health occupational therapist and absolute ripper, is the CEO and Founder of the Waves of Wellness (WOW) Foundation. Through imagery and conversation, Joel will share his own personal journey and discuss the integration of his passion and profession culminating in his mental health surf therapy charity. The presentation and facilitated discussion will be followed by an interactive Q&A session with questions from our international audience.

Joel is a keen surfer and mental health advocate, who has combined these two passions to head up the mental health surf therapy charity — the Waves of Wellness (WOW) Foundation.

Joel is a trained mental health Occupational Therapist and went on to work with OneWave, an organisation raising awareness for mental health through surfing and saltwater therapy. Joel founded the One Wave Surfing Experience, an eight-week learn-to-surf program supporting people diagnosed with mental health issues. Joel is now the founder and CEO of the Waves of Wellness Foundation — where he and his team are pioneering evidence-based surf therapy intervention in mental health with a vision to roll out international programs.

Joel has been recognised as a NSW finalist for young Australian of the Year 2018 and has written a children’s book ‘Stand Up Stand Out’ to help people from a young age think about mental health differently. Joel is a university lecturer and international speaker, inspiring conversations surrounding mental health in a diverse range of settings, including schools, corporate workplaces and everything in between. 

Check out the recording of our live Zoom broadcast where Joel shared his own personal journey and discuss the integration of his passion and profession culminating in his mental health surf therapy charity.

Please feel free to share with your friends and family and we look forward to seeing you on Sunday.