The Global Impact of Skateboarding: From Gaza to Uganda

Tony Hawk, a prominent figure in skateboarding, has transitioned from his athletic career to philanthropy through his nonprofit, The Skatepark Project. Since its inception in 2002, the organization has allocated $13 million to construct nearly 700 public skateparks across the United States, benefiting approximately 17 million users annually. Hawk emphasizes that the mission extends beyond building skateparks; it aims to empower youth to create their own spaces and foster community engagement. The Skatepark Project also supports international initiatives, providing financial and educational resources to skate programs in countries such as Afghanistan, Cambodia, and South Africa.

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

In Gaza, the nonprofit SkatePal has emerged as a vital resource for local youth, offering free skate lessons and programming despite the ongoing conflict. Over the past 11 years, SkatePal has established four skateparks and organized summer camps, particularly encouraging female participation in the sport. Local volunteer Malak highlights the inclusive nature of skateboarding, stating, “Skateboarding is for everyone, no matter what religion, color, or place.” Recently, SkatePal has redirected its funding to address basic needs for skaters and community members affected by war, distributing gear and resources to partner organizations like skateboarding.ps and Gaza Skate Team.

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

A similar grassroots movement has taken root in Mukono, Uganda, where the Uganda Skateboard Society (USS) was founded by local youth to promote skateboarding in impoverished areas. Co-founder Gerald Gose noted that while skateboarding existed in Uganda, there was a lack of promotion and support. The USS aims to build skateparks and provide free lessons and equipment, fostering community and engagement among youth. Gose expressed pride in the community-building aspect of the organization, recounting how they fundraised to support a skater's education. He envisions a strong foundation for the future of Ugandan skateboarding, stating, “I believe Ugandan skateboarders have the potential, and we have set goals for what we intend to achieve.”

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

Both SkatePal and the Uganda Skateboard Society illustrate the transformative power of skateboarding as a tool for community building and personal expression in challenging environments. Skateboarding serves as an escape for youth in Gaza, as expressed by Mahmoud Kilani, founder of skateboarding.ps, who described it as “a tool to escape everything.” In Uganda, the USS not only provides a safe space for skating but also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose among its members.

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

Tony Hawk remarked on the broader mission of The Skatepark Project, stating, “We’re not just helping to build skateparks. We’re also working to build community in entirely new ways.” This sentiment is echoed by both SkatePal and the Uganda Skateboard Society, which emphasize the importance of community support and empowerment through skateboarding.

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

• “Skateboarding is for everyone, no matter what religion, color, or place.” — Malak, Volunteer, SkatePal

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

• “It’s a tool to escape everything,” — Mahmoud Kilani, Founder, skateboarding.ps

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

• “When I leave here, I hope to be able to look around and say we have done a good job and made a good foundation for the future,” — Gerald Gose, Co-founder, Uganda Skateboard Society

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need

The initiatives in Gaza and Uganda highlight the resilience and creativity of youth in the face of adversity, showcasing how skateboarding can foster community and provide hope in challenging circumstances.

From Gaza to Uganda, skateboarding creates a safety net for young people in need