Skateboarding and education may seem like an unlikely pairing. But the NGO Skateistan is using this unique combination to uplift vulnerable youth. Their efforts began in Afghanistan, where children face poverty, inequality, and inadequate schooling. To help them overcome these obstacles, they created an inclusive Skate School where kids can learn while having fun. “Our main goal is to empower children, to provide them with a safe space,” says Jessica Faulkner, the communications manager for the organisation. What started in Kabul is now changing the lives of youth around the world.
The initiative has since established another Skate School in Afghanistan, and one in Cambodia and South Africa. Consisting of skating arenas and classrooms, these schools strike a balance between sport and education. The NGO runs five programmes, including Skate and Create, where kids learn about natural sciences, life skills, creative arts, and wellness. Through this, they are given the tools and confidence to realise that they have the power to contribute to change in society.
Skateistan welcomes youth aged five to 17 from all socio-economic backgrounds, overlooking gender or learning ability. Children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to connect are now learning from one another. This all-inclusive approach is helping fight social norms in Afghanistan, where girls are often discouraged from engaging in sports.
The innovative NGO is deconstructing inequalities while building a community where children can transcend social barriers. More than just learning to skateboard, youth are given the opportunity to discover their capabilities. "Children should be free to dream and their future should give them hope," Faulkner says.
Footage by Andy Buchanan was used in the creation of this film.
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