As part of our Giving Friday campaign, we’re shining a light on Skate-Aid, an NGO dedicated to empowering youth through skateboarding. In this interview, we talk to a Skate-Aid representative about their mission, the challenges they face, and the hope they bring to children in need. Find out how your support helps them build brighter futures, one skateboard at a time.

skate-aid’s philosophy is about empowering kids to get up after they fall.

How has Skate-Aid’s mission evolved since it began?

skate-aid is dedicated to empowering young people through the unique medium of skateboarding. Founded in 2009 by Titus Dittmann, the organization uses skateboarding as an educational tool to support children’s development, especially in areas facing social and economic challenges. Over the years, skate-aid has built skate parks worldwide in regions like Uganda, Namibia, Palestine, Kenya, Tanzania, Nepal etc where they run workshops to enhance resilience, intrinsic motivation, self-determination, confidence, and community among children.

The mission has evolved from simply providing access to skateboarding facilities to creating structured and pedagogical accompanied programs that develop children’s life skills in a safe space. skate-aid’s philosophy is about empowering kids to “get up after they fall”—teaching them resilience, self-confidence, and the courage to take on new challenges.

Could you share a success story that shows how skateboarding has impacted young lives?

One notable success story comes from skate-aid’s project in Uganda. Here, the skate park has become a safe haven for kids who face tough social conditions. A young girl named Hellen, previously reserved and shy, found confidence and joy through skateboarding, becoming a role model for other girls in her community. Now she is one of the skate coaches. This project has changed lives, offering kids an escape and a space to grow together, regardless of gender or background.

How does skateboarding help build resilience and confidence in young people?

Skateboarding uniquely fosters resilience as it’s a sport that teaches you to keep going after a fall. Young people build confidence by overcoming challenges, mastering new skills, and seeing their progress over time. This builds self-esteem and reinforces the idea that they can face difficulties head-on, both on and off the board.

What mental and social benefits do kids gain through skateboarding with Skate-Aid?

Skateboarding promotes community, especially in regions where social support is limited. Kids develop teamwork, patience, and empathy by skating with others, and they learn to support each other’s successes and recover from setbacks together. These skills are invaluable in creating a sense of belonging and building community resilience in the face of adversity.

Are there any recent/new programs or projects you’re excited about?

Recently, skate-aid launched a project in Sri Lanka, aimed at fostering inclusion and gender equality. This project integrates local cultural values with skateboarding’s inclusive nature, encouraging girls to take part in a sport traditionally dominated by boys. skate-aid’s goal is to create more skate parks globally, prioritising regions where kids can benefit most from community-driven empowerment.

How has TSG’s donation of helmets and gear supported safety in Skate-Aid’s projects?

TSG’s donation has been vital in ensuring that skateboarding remains safe for the kids. Many skate-aid’s project locations have limited access to quality protective gear, and these donations reduce injury risks and allow kids to skate freely, knowing they’re protected. This has enabled more children, especially beginners, to engage confidently and consistently.

What are Skate-Aid’s goals for growth, and where are partnerships most valuable?

skate-aid aims to expand its projects to new locations in need, especially in underserved areas of Latin America, Africa and Southeast Asia. We’re also focusing on creating sustainable, locally led programs that can continue independently. Partnerships with brands, educational institutions, and other NGOs are critical to expand funding and resources, allowing skate-aid to reach more children worldwide.

How can people interested in Skate-Aid’s mission get involved or contribute?

Individuals can support skate-aid by donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness about our mission. Corporate sponsors or local communities can partner to fund specific projects or donate equipment. skate-aid also welcomes supporters to visit their skate parks and see firsthand the impact of their contributions. Every bit helps in furthering the empowerment of children through the power of skateboarding! WE EMPOWER KIDS!

This Giving Friday, we’re proud to support Skateistan, an award-winning NGO that empowers children through skateboarding and education. In this exclusive interview, we chat with a Skateistan representative to learn how their programs are breaking barriers and transforming lives in communities around the world. Dive into their inspiring story and discover the impact your support can create.

When life is tough, resilience and creative problem solving is key. Skateboarding can give young people an outlet to develop these skills. 

Could you share a bit about Skateistan’s origins and how it came to use skateboarding as a tool for social change?

Before founder Oliver Percovich had the idea to start Skateistan, he found himself teaching young Afghan girls and boys how to skateboard on the streets of Kabul. It was the kids that took the initiative, grabbing Ollie’s skateboard right out of his hands. These kids’ first skatepark? A derelict fountain in their local neighborhood. 

A fountain is a symbol of replenishment. It’s a source of strength and life, where community is born. In Kabul, 15 years ago, that broken-down concrete fountain found a whole new meaning. Though it no longer gave fresh water, it was now a place where young girls and boys could play, learn skills and empower themselves through skateboarding. It was where Skateistan was born.

It was the children of Kabul who asked if Skateistan could help connect them to educational opportunities. This was how the Back to School and Skate & Create programs began. Similarly, our Youth Leadership program began off the back of certain students expressing an interest in teaching and running events. 

Fast forward, and that fountain has given birth to a global movement. Today it is a symbol of a dream manifest, a community of international skate schools, a network of over 750 like-minded social skate projects in over 100 countries, and so much more. 

But it’s important to remember that it was the kids who inspired the idea to run classes in the first place. And as that idea grew, and Skateistan was born, it remained crucial to let locals lead. From Noorzai who went from student to manager in the organization, to today’s move to make our skate schools independent; Skateistan has always been about adapting to new contexts and the needs of the communities we work within. 

How does Skateistan approach cultural sensitivities in the regions it serves?

As outlined above, we’ve always worked with local staff and role models in order to ensure acceptance and integration in the communities we serve. Whether it be outreach to parents who are unsure about their children attending our classes, to direct attention to students who are interested in becoming future community leaders themselves, we ensure local ownership and direction across the board. 

How does Skateistan ensure inclusivity, especially for girls and marginalized kids?

Since the beginning of Skateistan, we’ve committed to 50%+ female attendance. We’re currently hovering between 52% and 56%, thanks to our constant attention to girls in the programs. Whether it’s through having female instructors and staff members at our Schools and Partners, by creating girls only sessions and safe spaces, or through supporting women-led projects around the world, inclusivity is something we’ve always had as a guiding light. And we’re always looking for ways to improve. 

What unique skills and values do young people gain from skateboarding at Skateistan?

When life is tough, resilience and creative problem solving is key. The way in which we all deal with failure or obstructions to our goals and wellbeing defines who we are and how we move forward in spite of these things. Skateboarding, though it is not a solution to life’s problems, can give young people an outlet to develop these skills. Physical activity of the creative and dynamic sort (like skateboarding) is empowering, especially for girls.

When life is going well, having a place you can go to keep things on track, to express yourself and blow off steam, is also crucial. Our programs try to offer spaces and resources for at-risk youth to learn, play and shape their futures, through the good and the bad. 

Could you share any memorable story where Skateistan made a big difference in a young person’s life?

Farida, 14, lives in an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp with her family in Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan. As a young girl, Farida never went to school and was unable to read and write. She recalls a time she lost her mother in the market and didn’t know what to do, how to ask for help or even read signs. Farida felt socially isolated, “I remember the days when my relatives encouraged my parents to not allow me to study. I didn’t even have a friend to walk and talk with, to make memories with, to study with, or to share my life challenges.”

This changed once she joined the Back-to-School program, which offered Farida something she’s always wanted: to be in a space with other children and make memories together. A part of Farida that seemed closed before, was now open. 

Now I know how valuable I am. I respect myself so much. Now my family believes I have a bright future

What role do local coaches play, how are they trained, and how are they trained to support the youth?

Since 2020, Skateistan has been working to grow the number of locations we work in. Through our Partners model, we create bespoke partnerships with existing organizations. We’re currently doing so in 30+ locations. This means that the way in which coaches and educators interact with participants varies greatly, and is tailored to suit the communities they serve. 

But as an overview, Skateistan Schools and Partners offer a mixture of skateboarding tuition, creative education and emotional support and encouragement for at-risk youth everywhere.

How has TSG’s helmets and gear donation impacted the kids’ safety and confidence? 

It goes without saying that helmets and pads protect our bodies from unnecessary injury while skateboarding. But it’s often overlooked the psychological power that protection offers. Knowing that you aren’t going to hurt yourself while trying something new offers the emotional safety net we need to push beyond our comfort zone, to learn new skills and really discover where our limits lie. Padding up is a mindful moment in our sessions where participants can plan their goals for a session, and padding down gives them a moment to reflect on their achievements. As such, TSG’s support is not only one of equipment, but a gift of support that supports our participants core development. 

How can supporters and partners get involved in Skateistan’s mission?

Skateistan is raising $731,000 by the end of 2024. Our campaign is called She Leads. We Follow. and it’s a call to unite for at-risk girls and women of color all over the world. This money will provide further skateboarding and education programs. We’re talking Afghanistan, Iraq, South Sudan, Bolivia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Kenya, the list goes on and on. In fact, by 2027, Skateistan aims to be working in 50 countries, reaching over 10,000 kids. And over half of those will be girls. But we can’t do it alone.

Across the world, gender and racial inequality remains a problem. But every child deserves a chance to live their dream. Donate today at skateistan.org, so that girls everywhere can shape their tomorrows.

For the winter of 2024/25, Swiss fashion brand Strellson collaborated with TSG to create an exclusive set of protection to accompany their snowboard capsule collection, in their “Swiss Mountaineering” outdoor program. The goggle and helmet setup, finished in classic black and white, unites the TSG and Strellson’s commitment to superlative form and functionality and leans into TSG’s decades-long experience in keeping athletes out of harms way on the mountain. 

TSG caught up with the Strellson crew as the snowline began to drop towards the valleys of the Swiss Alps, to find out about the collaboration and why it was imperative that they worked with TSG. 

The initial reason to collaborate was our common denominator, our Swiss Heritage!

Why did Strellson choose TSG as a partner in their capsule outerwear collection?

Strellson chose TSG as a partner for its capsule outerwear collection due to TSG’s expertise in high-quality outdoor gear and its commitment to innovation and performance, designed in Switzerland. The initial reason to collaborate was our common denominator, our Swiss Heritage, which allows for a lot of room for good storytelling. This collaboration allows Strellson to leverage TSG’s technical knowledge while aligning with its brand values of style and functionality

What is the “Swiss Mountaineering” outdoor program?

The “Swiss Mountaineering” outdoor program is an initiative that emphasizes the connection between Swiss heritage and outdoor adventure. It promotes outdoor activities that reflect the Swiss landscape and culture, encouraging exploration and appreciation of nature through well-designed, functional apparel.

Why is it important for Strellson, as a Swiss brand, to create a capsule outerwear collection?

For Strellson, creating a capsule outerwear collection was a logical next step as it reinforces our identity as a Swiss brand. It allows us to showcase our commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the outdoor lifestyle that is synonymous with Switzerland while also appealing to consumers who value both style and performance in their outerwear. Besides that, recognizing the current trends, we aimed to join the movement of brands entering the snowwear world, infusing it with our unique perspective, as we believe this collaboration aligns perfectly with the Zeitgeist to engage an open-minded, adventurous target audience.

What was the inspiration for the colour and design choice for the Strellson / TSG collaboration?

The inspiration for the colour and design choice in the Strellson / TSG collaboration draws from the natural landscapes of Switzerland, incorporating functional aesthetics that reflect both urban and outdoor environments. Therefore, we used a fabric that changes colors when exposed to cold, revealing a camouflage of Swiss mountains. But the rest of the color palettes is kept basic in black and white all over. This blend aims to create versatile pieces that can transition seamlessly from the city to the mountains.

Now you have seen the collection, what are your feelings about it and where will you be rocking your TSG / Strellson goggles and helmet this winter?

We are proud of the final products we created together and even more of the partnership we developed with TSG, which was a pleasure for everyone involved. The collection has been well-received for its stylish design and practical features, which makes us very happy. We are proud to know that our vision resonates with so many. 

This winter, we can already picture the thrill of enthusiasts donning their TSG x Strellson goggles and helmets, carving through the Swiss Alps, embracing the beauty of nature and the exhilaration of the sport. It’s not just about the gear; it’s about the unforgettable moments, the lifestyle, and the shared joy of winter adventures. Projects like this, while challenging as they step outside the traditional fashion circle, provide a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved to explore the exciting world of sportswear, and we eagerly anticipate collaborating on more innovative projects together in the future.

Prepare for the slopes with confidence using TSG’s Ultimate Winter Season Prep Checklist. From essential gear checks to ensuring your equipment, protection gear, and accessories are in top shape, this guide helps you stay safe and comfortable all season long. Download now and hit the mountains fully prepared!

Hannes Klausner is the mountain biker who puts freedom into freeride. Buzzing on the road less travelled, he pointed his 4×4 camper North out of Austria and headed for Iceland. Along for the ride to immortalize the bangers on film (well, digital) was friend and photographer Christoph Breiner. 

I wanted it to be the ultimate exploring adventure without a guide or local riders to ask.

Check out the goodies they brought back from their trip and enjoy the inside story of riding Iceland, direct from Hannes.  

Why did you choose Iceland for a mountain bike trip, and is Iceland the ultimate freeride destination? 

I’ve wanted to visit Iceland for a very long time, as all those stunning images from other people got me hooked. But I also wanted to see and explore it on my terms and make my own experiences. Iceland gave me so many options for everything I wanted to create as it is so diverse and so different from everywhere else.

I didn’t think about it as a bike trip destination but more of an adventure that I wanted to bring my bike to and see what was possible. My bike has taken me to many places, and freeriding opens up loads of possibilities, including witnessing places like Iceland.

It certainly wasn’t my ultimate freeride destination, but it was different from what I was expecting or looking for. It became about the search for extraordinary and rideable places in stunning landscapes that only Iceland can deliver. I am so thankful for the freedom my bike delivers that goes beyond the ordinary. 

How did you and Christoph Breiner hook up, and how does the rider-photographer relationship work, recording a trip like this? 

I met Christoph many years ago on a little bike trip while shooting with friends. He wasn’t a professional photographer back then, but time and passion have made him one of my favourite photographers to work with. He’s not only a friend and photographer but also very creative, comes up with great ideas, and is passionate about getting them dialled.

He’s also no stranger to adventures like this one, which is why he was my number one choice for the trip. I had to try hard to get him as he was swamped, but I didn’t want to work with someone else. We know each other well, making every trip unique and outstanding when it comes to creating content. We are also working on an arty analogue photo project, which I can’t wait to share.

What was your route around the island, and did you hook up with local riders to guide you to spots? 

I wanted it to be the ultimate exploring adventure without a guide, local riders to ask, and no specific plan to follow. We took it day by day, drove around the whole island, and hiked into unique, unknown places. There were so many random shooting locations, riding spots, and such a variety of landscapes that there was no need for a guide to show us well-known places. It was just a personal exploration of one of the most epic places on this planet, which I wanted to see, explore, and experience my way.

How are those Icelandic 4x4s?

I’ve never seen anything like them before. Those Iceland 4×4 vehicles are something else. They’re massive, and they can go anywhere on the island.

Ours wasn’t that massive when it came to off-road driving, but it was good enough for most of the places we wanted to go, and it was the best place to live on a road trip like that. 

I drove from Austria to Denmark by myself, took the ferry to the Faroe Islands, and then on to Iceland. A couple of days later, I met Christoph, who came by plane. The 4×4 was home for the whole trip, and I enjoyed every bit of it.

Was there a spot that stands out above the rest?  

Not for me. It was that whole destination Iceland thing, with various colours, different landscapes, fascinating nature, and fast-changing weather conditions – pouring rain has never been so beautiful. All of it makes up that extraordinary Iceland experience, with no single spot that stands out. 

How much planning does a month-long trip like this take, and is it something that anyone could do? 

It was not much for the way I wanted to do this trip. It involved booking ferries and organizing the budget. Knowing I had the van for a whole season, it was pretty much an unplanned adventure. The only way to experience real adventure is in the mind, or at least that is my personal way.

Where’s next on your trip calendar? And what TSG kit is a must-have when travelling and riding?

I am working on a couple of smaller projects now, but I plan to be on the road for another month in a van this autumn. I’m longing for some epic trail riding in Slovenia, Croatia, Tuscany, and Elba in the ‘golden season’, living the best life on the road, and being happy riding bikes on some amazing trails around South Europe.

My next big trip will be next season, but I’m not going to reveal the destination yet. If you’re interested, you’ve got to stay tuned and follow my channels.

TSG is part of all my daily bike rides and travels, big and small. From tough new freeride lines to chilled trail riding, TSG has gear for everything, and it is of the best possible quality and fit.

I bring a full-face lid, body protection, trail lid, and knee pads, as well as a decent range of clothing so I’m prepared for the unexpected. I’m stoked to work with a brand that focuses on the most important part of our game, which is safety. 

Hannes riding kit in Iceland