ABOUT THE FOUNDER

JP ‘Peli’ Pereat

Jean Pierre Pereat, known affectionately as “Peli”, grew up in Los Angeles, raised by a devoted single mother. At the age of 12, he was introduced to the ocean and surfing — an encounter that would shape the rest of his life. In the surf and the broader ocean community, Peli found the father-figure and mentor he had long sought.

His passion for the ocean deepened into purpose after his nephew was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. Inspired to help him connect with the ocean and seeing the positive impact it had, Peli began working in the ocean and teaching surfing—unintentionally launching what would become a lifelong calling in adaptive surf therapy.

Peli's first formal experience working with children with special needs came through Surfers Healing, widely recognized as the original surf therapy organization. Already tandem surfing by then, he quickly became a trusted member of their Malibu crew, supporting their sessions annually and developing a deep connection to their mission.

Part of the early grassroots stages of the foundation of A Walk on Water (AWOW), Peli brought his skillset to the team. He went on to serve as a lead surf therapist, captain of the instructor team, and later, a board member, helping shape AWOW’s inclusive ethos and national impact.

From there, recognising the importance of continuous year-round surf therapy he co-founded the nonprofit the Mighty Under Dogs (MUD). MUD developed and lead surf therapy events that gained national recognition, including multiple California Senate awards. MUD collaborated with many organizations over the years including the World Surf League in Malibu, Access Surf in Hawaii, Los Cabos Children Foundation in Baja Mexico, and numerous other local organisations for events in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Peli was honored to meet with Carlos Luna of Locales Surf Shop and introduce him into the world of surf therapy. Together they collaborated on several events in Rosarito, Mexico. From there Carlos started an organisation that continues to do tremendous work year-round - Olas Para Todos.

Throughout his journey, Peli has worked with other key organizations including the Mauli Ola Foundation which is dedicated to providing hope and confidence to individuals living with genetic diseases, and he continues to contribute his expertise to Surfers Healing, A Walk on Water and THERSurf as well as both the Ed Asner Family Center and Children’s Lifesaving Foundation Summer programs.

Building on decades of experience, Peli launched Pelican Ocean Therapy, a community-centered surf therapy program based in Malibu, California. Focused on accessibility, inclusion, and evidence-based support, Pelican Ocean Therapy provides adaptive surf experiences for children and adults of all abilities—particularly those with special needs and neurodivergent profiles.

At the heart of Peli’s work is his gift for creating a welcoming, judgment-free community—where every participant, family member, and volunteer feels seen, safe, and supported. His warmth, patience, and deep respect for each individual are felt throughout every session. More than just teaching people to surf, Peli fosters a sense of belonging that ripples far beyond the shoreline.