The Surfpop Foundation, a registered non-profit, is working hard to empower at-risk youth from Masiphumele. Since 2018, they have been offering a programme that encourages girls to learn to surf.
Surfpop was founded by surf enthusiast Daniel Botha in 2015 to share his love for surfing and the ocean with at-risk youth. It aims to give kids from disadvantaged communities a healthy way out of gangsterism, crime and drugs.
Initially, Botha reached out to the primary school and high school in Masiphumelele Township and took the kids out surfing once a week. Since then, this has grown into a full after-school programme.
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Surfpop currently has 34 child beneficiaries in total. Children are selected or referred through various channels, including schools, social workers and organizations working with orphans and vulnerable children.
Each week after school, the children participate in two surf sessions starting with a yoga and fitness routine. Following this are swimming lessons and breathing exercises. They also participate in three education classes focused on Maths, English and Computer Literacy.
They are provided a nutritious meal before and after each surf or education session. The organisation also offers Surfpop garden to allow the kids to plant their own vegetables, learn about their health benefits and take vegetables home to their families.
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If you would like to know more about Surfpop or volunteer, please visit their website HERE.
Picture: Instagram / Surfpop Africa