Empowering Brazil's underprivileged youth through surfing

By Fabio Teixeira

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AA) – Children residing in a challenging environment of violence and poverty, amidst conflicts between drug dealers and law enforcement, acquire surfing skills in Rocinha’s beaches, the largest favela in Brazil, located in the south of Rio de Janeiro.

The Rocinha Surf School is based at the Rocinha Sports Complex and caters to approximately 300 children each year, fostering the virtues of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

The program has witnessed the involvement of over 3,000 children so far.

The school holds global recognition and is acknowledged by several companies and non-governmental organizations, including ISA, CBS, and SUDERJ.

It enjoys widespread support from surfers, musicians, and individuals worldwide, including notable backing from American singer Jack Johnson, Surfrider Foundation Brazil, and numerous others.