The Awake Academy Story

The Awake Academy Story

Once upon a time...  

We found ourselves exactly where you might be now – burnt out, disconnected, and quietly questioning our paths. Layne Beachley, a seven-time world surfing champion, grappled with self-doubt, chronic fatigue, and persistent injuries behind her extraordinary successes. Tess Brouwer, a former corporate executive, endured a life-altering spinal cord and brain injury, which demanded a profound rebuild of both body and spirit. Our ‘aha’ moment came from realising true happiness was not found externally but through a deep, inward reconnection.

Recognising we were not alone in these struggles, we envisioned a supportive, nurturing community. From this, Awake Academy was born – dedicated to guiding individuals feeling lost or overwhelmed back to clarity, energy, and purposeful living. love-layne-and-tess

What defines us?

Deep Values. Clear Direction.

At Awake Academy, we exist to help you reconnect with your authentic self, rebuild your inner compass, and rediscover true joy.

Our core values reflect our commitment to:

Growth: Because personal growth is a continuous, enriching journey.

Empathy: Compassion and understanding are our foundation.

Inclusivity: Every voice matters and enriches our community.

Fun: Laughter and joy are essential in fostering deep connections and meaningful growth.

Authenticity: Living truthfully transforms lives profoundly.

We understand your challenges because we've lived them – and our method is rooted deeply in genuine experiences, evidence-based insights, and heartfelt wisdom.

Soulful Science Meets
Radical Reconnection

 

Real Tools. Brave Hearts.

Awake Academy’s approach blends positive psychology, emotional intelligence, neuroscience, and real-world experiences to foster lasting change. We offer practical wellbeing strategies, mindfulness techniques, resilience-building exercises, and energy-management tools, all delivered with empathy and clarity. Our signature offerings include:

Own Your Truth Course: A transformative journey using the "7 Doctors" framework, helping you identify emotional barriers, shift mindset, and establish purposeful habits.

Thrive Workshops: Interactive sessions teaching immediate, practical strategies for resilience and energy management.

Awake Collective Membership: An ongoing, guided community offering monthly live masterclasses, "Group Hugs", resources, forums and continuous support to sustain meaningful personal transformation.

The Men’s Circle – Private. Powerful. Personal. A confidential space for men to show up fully and do the work that matters. Stay grounded, stay accountable, and grow alongside others who get it – and have your back.

Where Connection Meets Transformation  

When you join the Awake Collective, you’re not just joining a course – you’re stepping into a community that sees you, hears you, and holds space for you. Whether you're navigating a crossroads, craving connection, or simply showing up to grow, our circle is here to lift you up.

The Awake Collective is a place where you can breathe out, share freely, and be supported by people who get it. This is a community of real talk, micro-moments, and joyful celebration of "We are in this together." 

Lived Wisdom. Lasting Change.

We have empowered thousands – from corporate leaders to creative visionaries – to reclaim their lives. Grounded in research and enriched by real stories, we blend science-backed techniques with lived wisdom to light your path to lasting change.

Transformation, Not Theory: Real-life insights from Layne and Tess, who have genuinely walked the path from struggle to awakening.

Soul Meets Science: Our methods are grounded in neuroscience, positive psychology, and emotional intelligence, ensuring sustainable, meaningful outcomes.

Gentle Strength: Our supportive, invitational environment encourages growth without pressure, ensuring your journey is nurturing and empowering.

Structured Guidance: Live courses, community engagements, and daily rituals are designed to reinforce your personal progress continuously.

Joyful Destination: While recognising initial struggles, our ultimate goal is to guide you toward enduring joy and clarity.

 

Meet Your Coaches

Layne Beachley AO

7x World Surfing Champion & Mental Wellness Advocate:

An iconic figure in the world of surfing, Layne brings her unique insights to Awake Academy. As a 7-time World Surfing champion, she knows the importance of mental resilience, determination, and overcoming challenges. Her journey from adversity to greatness has inspired her to guide others on their path to authenticity and empowerment.

 

Tess Brouwer

CEO of Awake Academy, Practitioner of Positive Psychology & Wellbeing:

Tess Brouwer, a corporate athlete and mental wellness mentor, complements Layne’s expertise with her deep understanding of corporate dynamics and mental wellbeing. With a background in rebuilding her life from a life changing spinal cord and brain injury plus her extensive experience as a senior executive, Tess specialises in fostering resilience, mental fitness, and effective communication within corporate and home environments.

Meet Your Coaches

Layne Beachley AO

7x World Surfing Champion & Mental Wellness Advocate:

An iconic figure in the world of surfing, Layne brings her unique insights to Awake Academy. As a 7-time World Surfing champion, she knows the importance of mental resilience, determination, and overcoming challenges. Her journey from adversity to greatness has inspired her to guide others on their path to authenticity and empowerment.

Tess Brouwer

CEO of Awake Academy, Practitioner of Positive Psychology & Wellbeing:

Tess Brouwer, a corporate athlete and mental wellness mentor, complements Layne’s expertise with her deep understanding of corporate dynamics and mental wellbeing. With a background in rebuilding her life from a life changing spinal cord and brain injury plus her extensive experience as a senior executive, Tess specialises in fostering resilience, mental fitness, and effective communication within corporate and home environments.

 Let's Begin, Together

Imagine waking each day clear, connected, and vibrant – fully aligned with your purpose. 

Ready to awaken?

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