Inspirational Islanders: Chani Kind, Surfers Against Sewage

A keen swimmer and kayaker, Chani has been passionate about blue spaces from an early age. After studying for a degree in Marine Geography and a period working for the Environment Agency, she joined Surfers Against Sewage as their Regional Representative in 2022. Her role involves connecting with local communities and organisations on the Isle of Wight to provide a voice in campaigning for cleaner waters, protecting and enhancing our coastline for generations to come.

“I moved to the Island in 2014 to raise my family with access to the vast amount of variety of blue and green spaces here, which I feel are vital for our physical and mental health. People here are rightfully proud of their unique areas like Fishbourne, Gurnard and Bembridge and there is a real feeling of community.

My favourite Island place is the coastal path, whether taken in sections or completed as the main purpose of the holiday. It gives views and access to all of our stunning coastline.

I love spending time at Appley Beach. In summer at spring low tide you can walk out (though be aware the tide does come in quick, always put your safety first) to the far sand bars that make it seem like you’re on a tropical island. Between the rivulets of sand, you can spot fish, crabs, seagrass and lugworms. In winter with a good pair of binoculars, you can witness (from a safe distance) a beautiful variety of seabirds too.

To choose just one Isle of Wight event as a favourite is so hard! What I love about the Island is it seems every weekend there are small-scale events from beach cleans to rockpool walks, guided fossil trails, cold water swimming groups and accessible surfing to get involved with. All are run by passionate people who want to share their love for our environment.

If I only had an hour, I would walk through our oldest attraction, Shanklin Chine, to see its beautiful waterfall and smell the almost tropical scent of the plants. I would then wander down to Hope Beach and have a swim, letting the power of the sea benefit my mental health and bring me back into the moment.”

To find out amenities, tide times and local water information – including bathing water safety – use the free SAS Safer Seas and River Service app, available from your App store.