Riding the wave of success for Ntando
Surfers Not Street Children, has helped empower hundreds of children through riding the waves to brighter futures
AS an organisation, Surfers Not Street Children, has helped empower hundreds of children through riding the waves to brighter futures.
The NPO helps empower ex street children and children at risk through surfing and mentorship.
One of the success stories to come out of the programme, is Ntando Msibi. The 21-year-old who ran away from home at the age of nine after the tragic passing of his mother has used his story to inspire and mentor other street children.
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Since joining Surfers Not Street Children, at the age of 15, the talented surfers has gone on to represent South Africa at two ISA World Junior Surfing championships. The NPO was founded by activist and surfer, Tom Hewitt (MBE).
Msibi, a former KwaMashu resident, said if it wasn’t for Hewitt’s organisation, he would still be living on the streets.
“I used to live near the Point Road area and I’d often walk along the promenade. One day I was cruising along and I saw a bunch of guys near the pier laughing and standing there with surfboards.
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“I’d asked them how do I join them and they directed me to Tom. He actually gave me my first board. He told that surfing would take me places that I’d never imagined and I didn’t realise how true that was. Being with Surfers Not Street Children has completely transformed my life,” he said.
Msibi said he now uses his story to empower and inspire young street children. “Often when I walk home and I see street children I stop them and speak to them about Surfers Not Street Children and share my story with them,” he said.
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