Papua New Guinea’s First Skate Space
After many years of plywood ramps that would eventually fall wayside to the natural elements, Skate PNG was on a mission to build Papua New Guinea’s first permanent, concrete skateboarding space.
In 2023, Skate PNG was the recipient of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, enabling the build of Papua New Guinea’s first concrete skate space. In November 2023, a team of global volunteers and local community leaders gathered at Taurama Beach, Port Moresby for a intensive 10 day build. The project included the build of a concrete mini ramp, flat ground, box ledge, storage container (future classroom/multi-purpose space) and roof, toilet and shower facilities at the Pyramid Board Riders club.
In addition to the build, the project included intensive training for 8 skate coaches with the internationally accredited Good Push skate programs. The space was opened with a community day on Saturday 25 November, inviting over 200 children to free skate lessons and community day.
Since the opening, lessons have been held Thursday to Saturday each week, with two dedicated female lessons led by our female skate instructors. An average of 30 children/youths per day have engaged in the daily sessions on offer. On average, 30-40% of participants are female. We aim to bring this level to at least 50% in our future sessions.
The purpose of these lessons is to provide basic skate training and a safe place to learn and play through the positive lens of skateboarding. Lessons concluded on December 20th for Christmas break and with the finishing of funds from the previous grant.
We’re now looking to raise funds for continued skate lessons and water provision for the Taurama Beach skate space. Donate now to help us reach our goal!