The familiar scent of cut grass and sunscreen at Badi Köniz transforms when surfboards arrive at the water’s edge. Surfday Bern is our annual gathering with dedicated time for families and young people with disabilities to claim their space in the water.
In partnership with the Ref. Kirchgemeinde Köniz, we turn the local pool into a hub of inclusion based on water sports. You can start with balance exercises on the lawn or find your center on a board in the water. Every moment follows a calm and unhurried rhythm. Whether you are navigating a physical challenge or you are simply curious about the feeling of a board beneath you, our team ensures you have the support needed to explore without pressure.
Diversity is the heart of this event. We provide adaptive equipment and personal assistance for all mobility needs.
- Dates: TBD
- Location: Badi Köniz, Bern
- For: Families and young people with disabilities
- Fee: Entrance fee into the swimming pool area. Donations appreciated.
Our dream
We believe that the therapeutic power of the water should be a local right. For many in our community, the ocean feels out of reach for physical or financial reasons. Surfday Bern changes that by bringing the surf spirit into the heart of the city and making the sport accessible to everyone.
Our mission is to replace doubt with a simple invitation to try. Surfing serves as a therapeutic tool that promotes physical well-being and supports mental health. We want every participant to experience the “Quiet Courage” of balancing on water and leaving the Badi with a renewed sense of confidence. This project proves that with the right support, anyone can find their rhythm and experience the pure joy of the sport.
What you'll experience
- A supportive environment designed for families and individuals with disabilities.
- A space to build lasting relationships and share stories with the community.
- Supported sports in a calm pool environment led by experienced coaches.
- Playful training with balance boards and pedalos.
- A day designed to focus on calm joy.
Participation details
Who can join?
We invite families and youth of all backgrounds. This day is specifically designed for kids with physical or cognitive disabilities.
What’s included?
Your registration covers the full experience. This includes professional coaching and all necessary equipment.
What to bring?
Pack your swimwear and a towel. We provide the boards and other equipment. The day is structured to be unhurried and we ensure there is plenty of time for long breaks.
Costs
You only need the entrance fee into the swimming pool area. Of course we are happy if you help us spread our mission with a free donation of your choice. There will be a TWINT QR code for that.
Sign-up to Surfday Bern
Surfday Bern in Badi Köniz
- Date: TBD
- Time: 12:00h – 17:00h (Individual time-slots for surfing)
- Meeting point: Badi Köniz, Bern (Switzerland)
- What happens: Land-based balance training and guided surf sessions in the pool. You will receive a calm briefing before our coaches support you with your first glides on a surfboard.
- Good to know: All surf equipment provided. The site is wheelchair accessible and features a dedicated safety plan.
- Fee: Entrance fee into the swimming pool area. Participation is supported by NOMB Changes and our partners. Donations appreciated.
Meet the team
Chicken
Project co-lead. Focused on safe, fun, inclusive sessions and making sure everyone gets time on the wave.
Philipp
A local pastor with a heart for family life and a talent for creating meaningful dialogue.
He is not primarily looking for the depth of the water, but rather the depth of encounters and conversations. He truly has a talent for bringing people together.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
No. Most of our activities take place in the shallow or controlled areas of the pool where you can easily stand. Our coaches are always in the water with you.
Can I come with a support person?
Yes. Add their name during your registration. We’ll make space in the briefing and on the dock.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Badi Köniz is a barrier-free location with step-free access and appropriate changing facilities. Our team is also trained to assist with transfers and water entry to ensure you feel comfortable.
Are photos taken?
Only with consent. You can opt out entirely. Photos and video recordings taken during the project in which you are recognizable may be reproduced, shared, and used free of charge by NOMB Changes for documentary and marketing purposes in audiovisual, print, and online media. NOMB Changes will not intentionally use images that could be perceived as offensive. Photos taken by participants and provided to NOMB Changes may also be used free of charge for promotional purposes.
Support Surfday Bern
Your help keeps the boards floating and the sessions accessible for everyone.
- Donate to Bern: Fund the equipment and refreshments for our inclusive surf days.
- Join the Gang: Become a NOMB Changer member to support our year-round projects.
Info about donations
For businesses and organizations looking to sponsor or partner with us, please reach out for more detailed information on how we can work together.
Donations are currently not tax-deductible. If you would like to donate amounts larger >200€ or through your business, please contact us beforehand. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!
