Meet the Team
We're so lucky to work with so many inspiring women!
Meet the Women Soulful Surf Team
Founder & Owner
Helena Richardson
I’m originally from Poland, and in 2015, I bought a one-way ticket to Bali to completely reinvent my life. I became a yoga teacher, fell in love with surfing, and discovered the kind of freedom that only comes from building life on your own terms.
When I moved to Australia in 2016, I was out of the water for four years. Starting again felt humbling. I was surrounded by men who had grown up by the ocean, and I often felt behind, inexperienced, and self-conscious.
But instead of shrinking, I made a decision: I was no longer available for playing small.
What I realised wasn’t just about surfing - it was about identity. Confidence. The stories we carry about who we are and what we’re capable of.
Over the years, I met countless women who felt the same pull toward the ocean… and the same fear holding them back. “I’m too old.” “I’m not fit enough.” “I don’t belong out there.”
That’s why Women Soulful Surf was born.
Today, I blend surf coaching, yoga and mind magic (based on NLP practice) to help women rewire self-doubt, move through fear, and step into a version of themselves that feels powerful, grounded, and unapologetic - in the water and in life.
Because learning to surf isn’t just about standing on a board.
It’s about standing in your power.
Surf Coach - Caves Beach Surf School & Retreats
Monique Cabout
I fell in love with surfing at the age of 23 and haven't looked back since.
I loved the challenge, the empowerment, and the pure joy it has brought to my life. I never could've anticipated the incredible like-minded friendships and experiences surfing has given me.
Surfing isn't just a sport to me; it's a lifestyle, a form of self-care, and my favourite way to connect to nature. Every time I am in the salt water, it cleanses my soul and clears my mind.
Each learning moment in my surfing journey has deepened my appreciation for surfing and has taught me patience and, most of all, gratitude—gratitude for every small improvement, every wave caught, and simply being in the ocean.
When I'm not embracing my inner child in the waves, I am deep in nature, walking barefoot with my dog Lacey or nourishing myself through mindfulness practices.
I am excited to share with you the love and gratitude I have for the ocean and hopefully leave you feeling motivated and inspired for your own surfing journey.
Host - International Retreats
Mel Halls
I feel so lucky to be a part of the Women Soulful Surf team as a host on overseas retreats!
I have been surfing for about 6 years now and in that time, I was a guest on two WSS retreats and joined one retreat as a collaboration partner. During these retreats, my passion for supporting and empowering other women in the surf was ignited.
When I'm not on retreat, I am living in Bali connecting with my balinese family, immersing myself in the culture and growing my own small business - Elation, a sustainable swimwear brand, where I also get to connect and share my love for the ocean with others.
Surfing and connecting with the ocean has taught me many valuable lessons over the years - patience, self love and empowerment. It was the first skill that showed me that with effort, patience and self love, I really can do what I put my mind to. I think that is the most valuable lesson in life and I am grateful that I get to now share that with you on your very own surf journey.
Surf Coach - Crescent Head Retreat
Alyx-Jane Smith
I’m beyond proud to be apart of the Women Soulful Surf team!
I have been with WSS for over 3 years now, and I absolutely love having this opportunity to help women discover the joy and empowerment that comes from connecting with the ocean.
I grew up in Caves Beach and found my love of surfing as a child, it has always been a place I can retreat too to feel present and grounded as well as connecting me with some of my most cherished friendships.
When I’m not surfing I am practice yoga and making memories with my family and friends.
Surfing has such a special way of connecting us to our selves and the present moment, and I cannot wait to share that experience with you!
Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your technique, I’m here to guide you through the process with support and encouragement.
See you in the surf!
Surf Coach - Caves Beach Surf School
Briley Bosworth
I started surfing in 2016, and in more recent years, I have overcome the fear I once had of the ocean and have fallen completely in love with the sense of freedom it gives me. When I’m not coaching or surfing, I have many hobbies and passions. I’m passionate about all flora and fauna, I’m a yoga teacher, and I love to create, write, bake, garden, snowboard, and bushwalk with my three dogs. Basically, I love anything that gets me outside and in touch with nature. I feel so excited to be part of the WWS community, and I can’t wait to join you on your journey of learning how to surf!