Take 5 & Elman Peace
In 2019, Elman Peace in Somalia partnered with Waves for Change to implement Surf Therapy for violence-exposed adolescents in Mogadishu. However, escalating security risks near local beaches forced the team to rethink their approach. Rather than abandon the intervention, Elman adapted the core elements of Surf Therapy—routine, coping skills, and social connection—to new activities like soccer, yoga, chess, and art. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with significant improvements in emotional regulation, resilience, and well-being.
This pioneering adaptation sparked the evolution of Take 5, demonstrating that the effectiveness of play-based therapy lies not in a single sport, but in the structure, relationships, and joyful engagement it fosters.
With strong, trusted mentors and meaningful activities, Take 5 creates spaces where young people can heal, grow, and thrive—anywhere.
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