How skateboarding lessons are saving the lives of dogs

Skateboarding is beneficial for dogs – just ask Tom Vilakazi. His canine companion often tries his paws at skating. The hound isn’t always successful, but he doesn’t need to be as Vilakazi is the one using his board to make a difference. “I skate to save dogs,” he says. By harnessing his passion for the sport, Vilakazi is creating a better life for the animals in his community. 

This year, Vilakazi began UThando Lwenja, which means “for the love of dogs”. He provides skateboarding lessons to kids in Sweetwaters, KwaZulu-Natal and uses the profits to help animals in rural areas receive medical attention. “Dogs are far more than just protection,” Vilakazi says. “They have feelings too and they need to be loved.” Having learnt to value them through Funda Nenja, he’s now passing on his knowledge and experience to other youth.

“Improving the life of dogs makes me feel like I’m contributing to society,” Vilakazi says. “I’ve realised that we are nothing without animals in this world.” With each trick on a skateboard, happier days are guaranteed for these dogs.