StayNmOcean: testimony of following your hearts call to the ocean

StayNmOcean: by Kaliko

I embarked on my journey with non-profits and surf camps in 2016, initially offering my expertise as a surfer and waterman without making it a central focus. The joy of being at the beach and witnessing the sheer delight on people's faces as they caught a wave fueled my early experiences. As a Hawaiian, I hold close to my heart the wisdom passed down through generations, particularly the importance of confidence in oneself and embracing one's Hawaiian identity. Equally significant is the understanding that the ocean is not just a place but home, a sanctuary, a school, and a profound love. Throughout my volunteer work, I found myself naturally assuming roles that involved risk evaluation, taking charge, and mitigating potential dangers. Inspired by these experiences and my innate connection to the ocean, I aspired to amalgamate my skills to create something impactful for others. 

My perspective on surfing took a transformative turn when I connected with Natalie and the team at Groundswell. This exposure revealed a side of surfing that extended beyond mere recreation. I encountered individuals lacking confidence and a safe haven, and I realized the therapeutic potential of the ocean. While helping many ride waves, I had never fully grasped surfing as a means to heal trauma and anxiety. Groundswell's training opened my eyes to a new path, motivating me to change how people perceive the ocean and guide them safely to its embrace. This journey led to the inception of STAYNMOCEAN, my program dedicated to not only assisting clients but also collaborating with other organizations, offering a fresh perspective to enhance equipment and safety measures. We are now offering surf instruction on various crafts, coupled with therapy sessions and cold water therapy

Kaliko is a program lead for Native Like Water. founder of StyNMocean, and completed the Groundswell Surf Therapy Facilitator cert in 2022