This past summer I began working as a surf instructor for The Wahine Project. They are a non-profit group supporting girls in surfing both local as well as globally. Inspired by their efforts, I recently decided that I would take their mission to South Africa and I would spread their passion for surfing.
My main goal is to reach out to the women and girls of all ages. In today’s society, men are the dominant player in what we consider to be “action sports.” My mission is not to put down the great male surfers that we have, but to help promote female surfers. I would like to provide them this great opportunity of experiencing the ocean and the power of surfing. This barrier of gender roles, which exists in every culture and society, is the main barrier that I would like to help break down. Gender barriers, partnered with financial and geographical barriers, can be the largest obstacles for any person in any situation.
My attention has been drawn to a small village in Friemersheim, West Cape, South Africa. I have been in contact with a non-profit organization there in South Africa called The Surfer Kids who has been working with the children who attend the primary school there. My plan is to spend at least one month in South Africa, and as a part of my volunteer work I will continue to hold different after school programs and activities for them. These would include computer/internet skill building, yoga, and other sports such as soccer and volleyball. Through these activities I hope to build their self-awareness as well as global awareness. On weekends we will be taking the children to the beach for some surfing. Many of these children have just recently experienced the ocean for their first time, although they live just a quick drive away. It is my dream to spend time with these children and to witness for myself their joy and happiness while at the beach and while surfing.
Just as the children have barriers, so do I. A major one for me is the financial barrier. To be specific, my main concern is just getting there. Any donations in any form or amount would be so greatly appreciated. Also, if there is anything that anyone would like to send to these children or to the community of Friemersheim please contact me.
To help raise money for my effort I have created an account with GoFundMe where donations can be made.
