Boipelo Awuah launches Kimberley Winter Skateboarding Workshop for Girls

At just five years old, Boipelo Awuah stepped into the Kimberley Skate Plaza for the first time. The ramps looked massive, the energy intimidating, and the scene overwhelmingly male. 

But that never stopped her. Fourteen years later, Boipelo is a two-time Olympic skateboarder, and now she’s using that same skate park to spark change where it all began.

This Saturday, Boipelo’s nonprofit organisation, 053 Skateboarding For Girls, will officially kick off its Kimberley Winter Skateboarding Workshop, a girls-only event set to empower the next generation of female skateboarders.

The workshop, which will take place at the Kimberley Skate Plaza from 1pm and run till 6pm, is geared toward girls aged eight to 25 and promises a full day of skating, learning, creativity, and fun.

“I saw a lack of female skateboarders in Kimberley and a lack of community engagement,” Boipelo told the DFA. “This workshop creates a safe place for girls to grow. 

“Skateboarding is still very male-dominated, and it can be intimidating. I wanted to change that.”

Beyond personal achievement

A familiar face to anyone who has spent time at the skate park, Boipelo’s journey from a young girl with a board to an internationally recognised athlete is nothing short of remarkable. From local events to national competitions and then to representing South Africa on the Olympic stage, she has become a beacon of inspiration for young skaters across the province and beyond.

But Boipelo’s ambitions go far beyond personal achievement. Through the 053 Skateboarding for Girls initiative, she wants to create a sustainable female skateboarding community in Kimberley.

This is more than just a one-day workshop. It's part of a long-term vision that includes regular follow-up sessions, future events, and a growing network of girls supporting girls in skateboarding.

“I’ve learnt so many life lessons from skating,” she added. “It has taken me overseas, taught me resilience, and helped me build a family of skaters. 

“I’ve become a role model, and now it’s time to give back.”

The Winter Workshop will begin with skating sessions where Boipelo and her team will teach girls everything from balance and foot placement to beginner tricks and confidence-building techniques. 

“All skill levels are welcome, and first-timers are especially encouraged.

In the afternoon, participants will get creative during an arts and crafts session, where they’ll have the chance to paint, colour, and spray-paint on canvases and even customise their own skateboards.

Boipelo says the goal is to promote a growth mindset, allowing girls to develop at their own pace in a space that’s supportive and free from pressure. It’s about more than just learning how to skate; it’s about feeling seen, empowered, and part of something bigger.

More than a one-time event

The workshop will also feature interactive games, mini skate challenges, and time to connect with fellow skaters, building friendships and networks that can last far beyond the event.

“Whether you’re a total beginner or already skating, this is for you,” Boipelo said. “The aim is for Kimberley to become a real skateboarding hub for girls. I want girls here to know that they belong in this space too.”

053 Skateboarding For Girls was born out of the belief that access, visibility, and mentorship can change lives. For Boipelo, who broke boundaries in the sport from an early age, this is her way of making sure that the next girl who steps into the skate park doesn’t feel alone, afraid, or unsure.

The workshop is free, and all equipment will be provided. Girls are welcome to bring their own boards, but it’s not a requirement to join. 

All that’s needed is enthusiasm and a willingness to try.

As Boipelo continues to push her own boundaries in the global skateboarding arena, her heart remains firmly rooted in the city that gave her her first push.

“Skateboarding gave me confidence, community, and a path I never imagined,” she said. “Now it’s my turn to open that path for others.”

For many girls in Kimberley, this Saturday might be their first step into a world where they feel seen, strong, and supported, on and off the board.