Nicholas de Graaf

Nicholas de Graaf

Mental health ambassador

At age 27 Nicholas de Graaf experienced his first signs of mental health issues.

They quickly escalated with Nick becoming psychotic and ended up in a locked psychiatric ward for 3 weeks.

Now diagnosed with type 1 Bipolar disorder Nick founded MAWS, Mental Awareness with Sports.

His aim is to raise awareness of mental health whilst teaching people how to surf, skate and keep fit.

Nicholas de Graaf Book as a speaker/entertainer for your next event

Nicholas de Graaf is a mental health advocate who deals with a list of personal mental health issues and being a positive role model for others.
Founder of MAWS, Mental Awareness With Sports.
Mental health first aid.
Grin reapers podcast in 2020 with famous bodyboarder Ryan Hardy talking about Nick's and Ryan's mental health journey with bipolar.
Bronze medaling, surf rescue certificate and Australian recognized surf instructor.

Youth mentoring
Educating kids on the importance of education, mentoring them on the damages that bullying can cause.
Surf lessons
Teaching kids how to surf and educating them on beach safety.
Mental health support
Supporting kids who are effected by mental health and educating them on mental health.
Personal training
Training people to help loose their medication weight.
Sport activities and social events with positive mental health chats
A great community outing where people can feel comfortable opening up about their mental health challenges and getting the support whilst playing sport.
Mental health awareness through lived experiences
Raising awareness and educating others about my own mental health experience.