Surf to rise

Imagine: You are standing on a board, gliding over the waves, and adapting to the rhythm of the sea. Doesn’t that sound peaceful?

For years, women in Africa have faced gender stereotypes and discrimination, especially in the world of surfing. Today, through its Africa Surf Tour programme, the African Surfing Confederation (ASC) is breaking barriers by advancing Sustainable Development Goals such as Gender Equality, Conservation, and Inclusion in Surfing.

"Surfing is all about feeling, gliding over the waves, letting yourself be carried away and giving your heart to the ocean.", says ASC director. She points out that surfing has become a powerful therapy for mental health. Beyond helping to address psychological challenges, the ocean also opens doors to success for young people aspiring to pursue a sporting career while staying on the African continent.

To create more opportunities for women, recruitment programmes are underway to train them in surfing-related professions, coaching, and judging. These efforts led to the involvement of several women in organising the latest Africa Surf Tour in Senegal in December 2024. To combat gender inequality further, all competitions now recognise two champions—one male and one female.

The ASC envisions surfing as a tool for development and social integration across Africa, allowing young athletes to compete all year round without visa  restrictions. It also serves as a means of empowering women, raising awareness of environmental issues, and educating future generations by integrating surfing into school curricula.

by Aminata Diakhat