An Adventure of Growth and Transformation
The educational surf program in Peru, Lobitos transforms young people’s lives by offering much more than just sports training. This unique program uses the waves of Lobitos as a tool for personal and social development, where youth acquire essential values and build their confidence within the sea.
Designed to provide a space for healthy and structured growth, it helps children discover their potential in a safe and stimulating environment. Since its inception, the program has evolved into a true pillar of the community, promoting well-being and opening new perspectives.
Genesis and Objectives of the Surf Program
Launched as the NGO’s first program, the educational surf program in Lobitos was created to steer young people away from social risks by harnessing the natural resources of the region. Surfing, deeply rooted in the local culture, was chosen for its ability to instill values such as perseverance, respect, and discipline. This program offers children and adolescents a structured environment where they can explore their physical and emotional potential. By encouraging active involvement, the program serves as a stepping stone toward a more promising future, while simultaneously reinforcing their sense of belonging to the community.
An Inclusive and Proactive Approach during Classes
The educational surf program in Lobitos is based on an inclusive approach, where each young person, regardless of their background or challenges, finds their place. From the first sessions, a bond of trust is established with both the children and their parents, who may sometimes show initial reluctance. This gradual inclusion allows young people to integrate without judgment, recognizing their unique qualities, even those with behavioral challenges.
Each child is encouraged to express their potential in a respectful environment, turning difficult behaviors into constructive strengths. Over time, this proactive approach has strengthened families’ connections with the program, making it a pillar of stability for the Lobitos community.
Development and Structure of the Surf Lessons
Each surf class in Lobitos is designed to provide young participants with a comprehensive experience that combines sports discovery with personal education. The sessions begin with warm-up exercises and concentration activities, preparing the children both physically and mentally before they take on the waves. Supervised by professionals and volunteers, each child receives tailored support, whether to improve technically or to build confidence.
The rapid increase in participants, however – sometimes from 12 to 30 youths per session – has posed a significant challenge in terms of resources. With often limited means, the team has had to be creative to manage the groups and ensure a safe and enriching environment. Despite these limitations, each session remains a moment of fun and learning, where children can progress at their own pace, surrounded by support and camaraderie.
Want to join us? Check out our volunteer program.
Innovation: Surf Therapy for Peruvian Youth
To enrich the program and address the emotional needs of Lobitos’ youth, we have introduced a therapeutic dimension to our work: surf therapy. This innovative approach uses surfing as a means to enhance the participants’ mental well-being. By creating a space where children can express and channel their emotions, surf therapy strengthens their self-esteem and resilience when facing challenges.
The therapeutic program has specific goals: to help young people manage their emotions, strengthen their self-confidence, and adopt positive behaviors toward themselves and others. This approach, which combines the physical and mental benefits of surfing, has become a cornerstone of the program, enabling young people to develop essential skills for their daily lives and future.
Positive Impact of the Educational Surf Program in Peru
The educational surf program in Lobitos has a profound and lasting impact on its young participants. Beyond acquiring sports skills, children embrace fundamental values such as discipline, respect, and cooperation. These principles, reinforced throughout the sessions, translate into visible personal transformation: the youth gain self-esteem, learn to manage their emotions, and develop social skills.
For many children, the program also serves as a springboard to new opportunities, offering them a structured environment where they can grow and explore their potential. Through this experience, they become positive role models within their community, autonomous and prepared to build a balanced life. In short, the surf program inspires young people to project themselves confidently toward new horizons, enriching both their lives and that of their community.
Join the Adventure: A Call to Participate
The future of the educational surf program in Lobitos depends on the support of the community, volunteers, and partners. Those interested in learning more about Waves Lobitos and supporting this initiative are invited to explore our About Us page, where they can discover the story and mission behind this program.
Donate
Contribute financially or with surf equipment to help maintain and expand our program, providing more resources for Lobitos youth.
Volunteer
Join us on-site to support young surfers in Lobitos.
Spread the word
Share our mission with friends, family, and networks to help us reach new supporters and continue making a positive impact.
