Segregation still exists. From its difficult past, South African cities have evident social and economic divisions. Makhanda in the Eastern Cape is no different. The bulk of its population dwell in settlements on the outskirts. But now, the youth are getting people on board to unify the town.
Kgotso Chauke is a member of Skate Ubuntu, a Rhodes University student organisation that connects people from all walks of life. What began as a love for skateboarding on campus is now carving out a community that includes children from local townships. “Many of the kids don’t really have any hobbies when they come home from school,” Chauke says. “We try to give them an escape from any troubles they might be facing.” Not only do the children learn a new skill with this exciting spree, they’re also filled with a sense of empowerment. “Skateboarding gives the kids a bit of hope and ambition,” Chauke says.
Her goal now is to implement a skateboarding park for all to enjoy. The organisation is constantly ramping up expectations and growing its membership and purposes. “Some of the kids have gone from strangers to close friends,” Chauke says. And with a team of primarily women running the show, Skate Ubuntu is breaking barriers all round.
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