Impressions from Lebanon

The kick-off event of the skate-aid skateboarding workshops in the Arsal refugee camps took place on May 25, 2023. This event, made possible through a collaborative effort with our partners Green Helmets and Al Joussour al Nour, was an incredible experience for everyone involved. The event was a testament to the power of skateboarding to transcend borders and bring happiness to the kids. We had approximately 80 enthusiastic children in attendance and 45% of them were girls. This is a significant achievement in promoting gender equality in skateboarding and we’re committed to continuing this trend in our future efforts. The day began with excitement as children from different backgrounds gathered to experience the thrill of skateboarding. Our dedicated team of coaches, volunteers and mentors provided a safe and supportive environment for the kids to learn and grow, both on and off the skateboard. Throughout the workshops, we witnessed an incredible transformation in the children. They started as newcomers but quickly gained confidence, conquered their fears, and, most importantly, built lasting friendships. The positive atmosphere was infectious, with laughter and cheers echoing throughout the camp. We want to thank Green Helmets and Al Joussour al Nour for their support in making this event possible. Their commitment to improving the lives of these young individuals is truly inspiring and we look forward to many more collaborative initiatives. It was heartening to see the children's faces light up as they learned new skills, overcame challenges, and discovered their own resilience. We also extend our thanks to the dedicated skateboarding community, our sponsors and the local volunteers who contributed their time and resources to make this event a reality. Your support has made a profound impact on the lives of these kids. In closing, the kick-off skateboarding event in the Arsal refugee camps was a great success. skate-aid International e.V. remains committed to our mission of using skateboarding as a tool for positive change in the lives of marginalized youth and this event serves as a good example of that commitment. Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibilities that lie before us. Together, we will continue to make a difference and create a brighter future for these children. 

We empower kids!