Freedom on skateboard takes girls to new heights
Passionate Ethiopian girl skaters show that the board has no limits
Skateboarding is a sport often associated with boys. But in the heart of Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, two courageous girls took it upon themselves to break the stereotype and established a girls-only skateboarding group called Ethiopian Girls Skaters (EGS). EGS’s primary focus is to create a supportive community for underprivileged girls. Many of the members grew up watching boys skate in their neighborhood, but for them, skating was a no-go. Although they felt intimidated at times, their courage and support from their families pushed them to join the group. Now they all experience the thrill and freedom that comes with skateboarding.
Every Saturday, these girls meet at the Addis skatepark to learn, play, and push themselves to new heights. For them, skateboarding goes beyond personal enjoyment, it’s a way of life.
"I can't explain it with words, but I feel like I could fly when I skate. It gives me a lot of freedom," said 16-year-old Hanan Mohammed.
Hanan’s skillful tricks and her graceful movement, as she skates through the air, speak volumes about her determination to break barriers.
The skate park is now the girl's safe place - where they get to do what they love with their friends. They have formed a family-like bond supporting one another. Newcomers are warmly welcomed and guided through easy training empowering them to take the next steps in skating.
“At first, it was scary, but now I feel confident to skate. I feel calm when I skate and it takes away all my worries,” said 11-year-old Dagmawi Tewodros.
In addition to skateboarding, these girls actively engage in a diverse range of activities within the group, including one-on-one learning and counseling sessions. These sessions provide a supportive environment for the girls to receive personalized guidance and support tailored to their individual needs. EGS constantly considers what is best for the girls, and connects them with professionals, companies, and individuals who can offer valuable assistance. This network of support and activities is helping the girls develop self-confidence enabling them to focus more on their future.
“We talk to each other while we play and have fun. There is love here and no conflict at all, and this makes me happy. we care about each other.”
Yet the girls face some challenges. They have shortages of skateboards and skating space. Despite this, more and more girls are still joining the group.
"When I skate, I dream big, and at the same time, I feel as though I have accomplished my dream," says Hiwot Hassen. “When I grow up, I want to be an advocate for women and children, so I can create more opportunities like this for those in need.”
Once a male-dominated sport, has now become a life-changing activity for these girls, enabling them to connect and help each other. The EGS has created a safe environment that fosters not only talent but also self-development, for girls. Every time the skate rolls, so does the hopes and dreams of the girl skaters. Currently, EGS has 65 registered members, and the number is growing by the day.
