Skateistan Kabul

Skateboarding in Afghanistan? As soon as Australian skateboarders Oliver Percovich and Sharna Nolan lay down their boards in Kabul, they were surrounded by the eager faces of children of all ages, begging them to teach them how to skate. Stretching the three boards they had, they developed an infant skate school. Six young Afghan males who were naturals at skateboarding (aged 18-22) shared the three boards and quickly progressed in their newfound sport. Skateboarding was born in Afghanistan. The success with their first students prompted them to think bigger. By bringing more boards back to Kabul and establishing an indoor skateboarding venue they would be able to teach many more youth as well as run separate classes for females. Skateistan is Afghanistan’s first skateboarding school dedicated to teaching both male and female students. We aim to build indoor skateboarding facilities thoughout Afghanistan. We will start in Kabul with a indoor skatepark with indoor and outdoor sections. Students will receive training from experienced skateboarders in a secure environment. Skateboards, shoes and safety equipment will be loaned on site for the duration of classes. The story of setting up the school and the achievements of the students will be told through a documentary that shows what it is like to grow up in Afghanistan in 2009. We also strive to present a positive story about Afghan youth through global media platforms to create hope, unity and peace.