For the third time, SurfDay Bern brought together families, friends, and loads of surf stoke right in the heart of Switzerland. And even though it wasn’t our first time hosting it, the excitement and joy were just as big as in previous years.

Philipp from the Reformed Church of Bern — our wonderful co-partner for SurfDay — welcomed us with a huge smile. The sun was on our side, almost begging us to cool down in the coldish water pool. With one last cup of coffee in hand, the NOMB Changes team was ready to dive into another unforgettable day.

It didn’t take long until the first families arrived, eager to try something new. The kids, often shy at first, quickly turned their curiosity into excitement. Soon the magic question came up: “Can we go surfing now?” And of course, the classic puzzled remark: “But… there are no waves!” That’s true — no ocean waves in Bern. But as soon as the boards hit the water, the surf spirit was alive. SurfDay has never been just about riding waves. It’s about creating an inclusive community where everyone is welcome and where joy is shared, no matter the background or ability.

That joy became real when two boys were the first to step into the pool. Both are diagnosed with autism and prefer to take things slow. What they needed — and what the SurfDay community offered — was an atmosphere of trust, patience, and love. And it worked. After the session, the younger one came running, beaming with pride:
“I was surfing! And I even dove underneath the board! I’ll be back next year!”

Moments like this are what SurfDay is all about — breaking barriers, building confidence, and showing that surfing is not just a sport but a way to connect, to include, and to celebrate life together.

Coming together with families, NOMB Changes also got some inspiration for future surf projects, which we happily took in. So stay updated for some exciting news in the future.

👉 Sign up for our newsletter now and be the first to hear about new projects.

The excitement a NOMB Changer feels when seeing a person in a wheelchair crossing the street with a huge smile, ready to head down to the water, is beyond words. That is exactly what Waves of Inclusion is all about: getting people with physical or mental impairments onto a board and letting them experience the magic of surfing.

For the second time, this unique event took place – and the stoke was high from the very beginning. As soon as the SwissWaveAcademy reached the shore and got the boat ready, the first participants were already waiting, full of anticipation and courage. The wake waves on Lake Lucerne became a place where barriers disappeared, and only one thing mattered: community, trust, and joy.

From the very first moment, it was clear how powerful solidarity and mutual support can be. One young woman, who had already joined the first Waves of Inclusion, immediately stepped into an inspiring role. With her openness and courage, she made the first move, paddled out, and surfed the first waves. Her excitement was contagious: she boosted the confidence of the others in the boat and showed what becomes possible once you dare to try.

And when the first waves were finally surfed, happiness was everywhere. Kai from SwissWaveAcademy couldn’t hold back his joy – shouting excitedly, dancing in celebration, and cheering every single ride across the beautiful waters of Lake Lucerne.

Waves of Inclusion is more than just a surf event. It is a statement: Inclusion is not theory – it is lived reality. Every person – regardless of limitations – has the right to experience adventure, to feel freedom, and to be part of a supportive community.

And that is exactly what this day made visible: joy, courage, and the pure power of togetherness.

Want to know when the next “Waves of Inclusion” event will take place?
👉 Then sign up for our newsletter now and never miss an update. We’re excited to have you with us!