Project Elimu, in partnership with the Skateistan Foundation from Germany since 2021, offers free skateboarding activities to children in Kibera, Kenya. With technical support, training equipment, and curriculum provided by Skateistan, Project Elimu implements the program on the ground. So far, 121 children have received free skateboarding training, including 15 disabled children as part of our inclusivity focus. Additionally, 65% of the participants are girls, driven by our Girls First Approach, which breaks gender stereotypes in sports.
The Skate and Create program gives these children the opportunity to express themselves, get active, and discover new passions. We use fun activities, meditation, and exciting lessons on topics like food production and environmental awareness to help children in Kibera feel better and do better in school. By combining skateboarding, artistic expression, and physical activity, we help them find joy and freedom to express themselves.
“When I skate, I feel free. Learning a new trick and showing my friends makes me proud and happy.” – Zedrick, skater
Our program also introduces skateboarding to the community as it is a new sport in Kenya. By promoting partnerships with local schools and the community, we’ve built awareness and excitement for the program.
“I enjoy witnessing children who have never skated before come out of their shells and wholeheartedly embrace the sport,” says Makena, a local Project Elimu skateboard trainer.
The program serves around 100 children during holidays and weekends, with 40% being girls. By challenging stereotypes and showing girls they belong in sports, we help them feel powerful and inspire them to chase their dreams. The program also includes thematic workshops like "Culture and Society" and "Food and Environment," teaching children about where their food comes from, cultural diversity, and respect.