My name is Sarah Muir-Smith, and I am 22 years old. Over the past year I have taken up skateboarding, and have been presented with the amazing opportunity to volunteer with, and raise funds for the amazing not-for-profit organisation SkatePal. 

Over the month of October I will be joining other SkatePal volunteers in the small village of Asira Al-Shamaliya, just outside of Nablus in occupied Palestine. Here, in the skatepark built by SkatePal, we will be teaching young people how to skateboard and helping facilitate a space where they are free to socialise, learn, play, and develop the confidence that results from pushing ones’ limits. 

ABOUT SKATEPAL

SkatePal is a non-profit organisation that works with communities throughout Palestine to enhance the lives of young people and promote the benefits of skateboarding.

Since 2013, their ongoing presence and award-winning projects have reached hundreds of young people across the West Bank and won acclaim and recognition from supporters around the world.

SkatePal is run by a committed team of local and international volunteers who, through teaching skate classes, building skateparks and providing equipment, are enabling an ever-growing number of Palestinian skaters to empower themselves and inspire the next generation of Palestinian youth.

http://www.skatepal.co.uk/  

WHY I AM DOING IT

While I am certainly no pro, skateboarding has brought such a tangible benefit to my life that any opportunity to share this joy is a no-brainer! While we in Australia are incredibly fortunate to have the freedoms that result from living in a politically stable country, the same is not the case for many others around the world.

In the occupied territories of Palestine, where more than half of the population is under 21 years old, cultural, educational and sporting opportunities are severely limited. 

From personal experience I know the benefits of a sport such as skateboarding. It is one of the most inclusive sports in the world, instantly dissolving barriers between class, race, age and gender. Skateboarding engages youth, relieves stress and helps to build confidence and form long lasting relationships. 

"The occupation has bred a feeling of powerlessness for Palestinians. Skateboarding offers an opportunity to redirect some of that frustration into a different energy, one that is creative and cathartic in nature. This is why skateboarding rules."

Kristi Sanders, SkatePal volunteer. California 

WHAT THE FUNDS WILL DO

All of the money made goes straight back into supporting the skate-scene in Palestine and keeping SkatePal running. This includes building and repair costs for the skateparks, purchasing skateboards and safety equipment for lessons, and the general day to day running of the charity.  

HOW ELSE YOU CAN HELP

The Event: Everybody loves a good party, and a party that raises awareness and funds for a good cause is even better!

Planning is currently underway to organise a party in Melbourne to raise funds for SkatePal. 

If you know anybody who could help sponsor this event through providing drinks, products etc.  please let me know too- we could use all the help we can get!

The Good Stuff: Because there are no skate shops in Palestine and access to equipment is severely limited, any gear is greatly appreciated!

Decks, bearings, wheels, trucks, griptape- anything you can contribute will mean so much in keeping SkatePal's work going. 

If you know anybody in a position to donate equipment, please get in touch!

email: sarahm-s@hotmail.com 

mobile: 0434 698 078