Fifteen surfers, from the Surfers Not Street Children programme, made the Durban team. This year’s SA Champs mark a moment of transformation, but they need community support to make the journey to Jeffreys Bay.
Durban, South Africa (31 August 2025) – This October, the eThekwini Surfriders Association (ESA) will proudly send a team of 23 surfers to represent Durban and KwaZulu-Natal at the South African Surfing Championships in Jeffreys Bay.
In a powerful sign of transformation in South African surfing, 15 of the 23 team members come through the Surfers Not Street Children programme, which has been empowering youth from vulnerable backgrounds for more than two decades. For these surfers, the Championships are not just about medals they represent the chance to showcase resilience, talent, and the power of opportunity.
“This is a moment for Durban and KZN to back their whole team and ensure all of them get there and represent. When we are together, it is Durban at its best,” said Paul Canning from Surfing South Africa.
There is, however, a minor barrier; costs of competing, transport, accommodation, meals, competition fees, and support for coaches and carers fall directly on families. For many of these surfers, this creates a significant challenge.
As 16-year-old Melokuhle explains,“Surfing is my dream, but what makes me happiest is representing Durban. I feel so proud to be part of this team with 22 other young surfers from my area.”
The story of these athletes cannot be separated from Surfers Not Street Children’s history. Founded in 1998, the organisation began as the Durban Street Team, working with homeless children in the city. By combining mentorship, care, and creative outlets with sport, particularly surfing, the programme gave children the tools to leave street life behind. Over time, its work influenced public perceptions, challenged harmful policies, and created opportunities for young people once overlooked by society. Today, the partnership between Hewitt and renowned coach Sandile “Cyril” Mqadi continues to guide the surfing side of the programme, producing not only talented athletes but also confident young leaders.
ESA has now launched a fundraiser and is calling on the Durban and KZN community to help cover costs so that every surfer can make the trip to Jeffreys Bay and proudly represent their province.
To support donate here.
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