Join the United Nations, the international sports community (including the International Surfing Association) and WAVES for Development in celebrating the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. Started in 2013, the day will advocate the UN’s contribution to education, human development, healthy lifestyles and a peaceful world through sport. Given our organizations name (WAVES for Development) and our values, you might imagine we’re pretty excited about this day as these are many of the same ideals we’re working toward! Specifically, there are two short stories about young people in Peru involved with WAVES’ programming that we feel embody the type of impact that is possible and celebrated. The first is Henry’s story as it relates to fun, life-enriching experiences. Another is Karen’s story demonstrating equality that features culture and diversity.
Henry joined the organization as a young grom that would stand up on his boogie board to surf the waves in his backyard. Given a surfboard, he rips. (See him in action here). His participation in WAVES programming tapped another interest of his: photography. By 2011, that passion was clear (short video of him in Chicama talking about photography). Something – that I’m sure if you ask him – is fun and has enriched his life. He was first introduced to photography through his connection to surfing. It has led to exploring more of Peru as well as a trip to Switzerland. Additionally, his work will be featured at an upcoming event in Canada. He currently teaches photography classes in Lobitos for his community. And continues to rip on a surfboard.
Karen, who recently turned 15, is another person whose life has been positively impacted by surfing. You see, she’s arguably the first female surfer actually from Lobitos. She started attending programming as one of the youngest participants in surf classes – learning from both local and international volunteer instructors. What started as a healthy fear of the ocean and waves, has transformed into an embrace of the sport and positive culture. She has been invited to compete in a variety of contests, earned sponsorships and at one point was ranked in the top 5 female surfers in the country in her age group. Furthermore, she’s now an assistant instructor in the free surfing classes offered by WAVES Lobitos for other young people in the community. Seen here you might understand why…
Many thanks to all of the dedicated staff and volunteers that have worked and continue to interact with Henry, Karen and all of the youth participants through promoting sport and community development; together we are making WAVES!
