Helen Barrett Bright Idea Awards: Aiden’s surf club

Hi Aiden, can you tell us about yourself and your business? 

My name is Aiden and I have cystic fibrosis, I am autistic, and I have a learning disability. I dare to dream big and I have been able to achieve numerous qualifications and experiences in the activity and watersports sector. I have dreamed of setting up my own adaptive activity centre for a number of years. With this first grant I am setting up a surf club to offer experiences and opportunities to people who may not easily get opportunities like this. I want to give everyone the opportunity to grow through water sports, making friends and being around the ocean. The ocean has given me a lot of confidence and opportunities and made me feel good about myself over the years, and I want to help others get the same benefits I’ve had. 

What led you to apply for a 2023 Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Award? 

When I heard of the Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Awards, I felt excited at the possibility of getting help to make my dreams into a reality. I dream of setting up and running an adaptive activity centre. The ocean, watersports and sport have given me confidence and belief. I want to give others the same experiences I have benefited from.  

How will working for yourself help you balance work and your CF? 

I feel that I have natural leadership qualities and I like to look after and help other people. I believe as my own boss I can make a sensible balance between work and my CF, and I can show others that they can overcome any daily challenges and achieve anything they desire. 

What are you going to use the grant money for? 

I am using the money to set up a surf club with other activities on the beach, specifically targeting people with learning disabilities.  

What are your future plans for your business? 

In the future I would like to evolve the business into an adaptive activity centre and look at delivering watersports in the education sector as well, to provide support and opportunities for those with daily challenges. 

What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying for an Award? 

I would encourage others to apply for an award! Once you have an opportunity and some financial backing, it could be the starting point to your life’s journey and dreams. 

Where can people find out more about your surf club? 

You can contact Coastal Crusaders who are helping me to get these projects off the ground. I will soon set up social media for my brand Aloha Kakou (hello to all) and will look at making a website.