Project overview

The Surfkids Shredding Senegal project supports children and youth in coastal communities by combining surfing practice with educational support and vocational guidance. In areas where economic constraints and domestic responsibilities often limit access to education and sport, particularly for girls, the project offers a structured pathway that promotes school retention, personal development and social inclusion. 
 
Surfing is used not only as a sport but as a motivating educational lever, helping young participants develop discipline, confidence and resilience while remaining engaged in their academic journey. The programme also introduces participants to career opportunities linked to the surf and sports economy. 

Project objectives

• Support young participants in balancing academic success and regular sports practice. Promote the participation and empowerment of girls in surfing
• activities.
• Develop sports skills enabling talented youth to access competitive pathways.
• Strengthen employability through training in surf-related professions. 

Sport and education component: Surf for development

• Weekly surfing training sessions adapted to different age groups and skill levels.
• Educational monitoring and academic support for participating youth.
• Awareness activities encouraging girls’ participation in sport.
• Progressive learning pathways combining sport practice and life skills. 

Capacity building and employability

• Training modules on surf-related professions and sports careers.
• Coaching and mentoring for youth demonstrating athletic or professional potential.
• Support towards participation in national and international competitions. 

Target beneficiaries

• Direct beneficiaries: girls and boys from coastal communities engaged in surfing and education programmes.
• Indirect beneficiaries: families, local schools and the wider community. 

Scale and expected impact

• Improved academic performance and school retention among participants.
• Increased participation of girls in surfing activities.
• Enhanced sports skills and pathways to competition.
• Creation of income-generating opportunities linked to surfing and sport.