Skateistan was created by Australian skateboarder Oliver Percovich a few years ago after children on the streets of Kabul, Afghanistan saw him using his board. And with that, skateboarding hit Afghanistan. But it didn’t end there. “Skateistan’s development aid programs work with growing numbers of marginalized youth through skateboarding, and provide them with new opportunities in cross-cultural interaction, education, and personal empowerment programs,” explains their website. “In Kabul, Skateistan’s participants come from all of Afghanistan’s diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and include 40% female students, hundreds of streetworking children, and youth with disabilities. In our skatepark and classrooms they develop skills in skateboarding, leadership, civic responsibility, multimedia, and creative arts, exploring topics such as environmental health, culture/traditions, natural resources, and peace.”
Take a look at this short video they put together then watch this short film for more information.
(Upworthy via Kate Kotler)
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Published: Nov 22, 2012 06:00 pm