Surfing in South Africa has evolved into a dynamic and thriving community. Surfing South Africa (SSA) serves as the governing body responsible for organizing contests and representing the sport at the government level. There are more than 50,000 surfers in the country, and each coastal province has its own representative body that falls under the SAA’s umbrella.
In the picturesque Cape, Western Province Surfing organizes regional trials, further enhancing the region’s vibrant surfing culture. Notably, the government has been actively advocating for transformation within the sport, striving to promote greater diversity and inclusion, particularly encouraging participation from individuals of colour both in recreational surfing and within the sport’s organizational structures. This initiative is commonly referred to as Development Surfing.
Within this transformative sphere, organizations like the Local Surf Lounge Academy play a pivotal role. We are dedicated to nurturing and empowering the next generation of black surfers, offering them opportunities to thrive in the sport. While we currently receive some assistance, such as waived entry fees for select contests and transport cost coverage, we aim to secure even more support from these structures.
Our Surf Outreach program is the heart of our mission, aimed at investing in the development of young black surfers and providing them with equitable opportunities to excel in the sport. We believe that by fostering talent and creating pathways for these talented individuals, we not only enrich the surfing community but also contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant South African society.
As we ride the waves of change and work towards a more diverse and inclusive surfing culture, the Local Surf Lounge Academy remains committed to empowering the black youth of South Africa, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to make their mark in the world of surfing.
