RIDING LIFE: Inclusive Joburg skateboarding school helps children to find balance
An inspirational coach has created a nurturing space for girls and neurodivergent youth.
An innovative skateboarding program in Johannesburg is making a positive impact on the lives of underprivileged children. In 2020, artist Shayne Robinson, who spent years photographing conflict zones around the world, found a new passion in life – skateboarding. Having initially gravitated towards the sport due to its rebellious spirit, Robinson saw an opportunity to create an inclusive space for girls and neurodivergent youth to embrace their love for skateboarding.
Robinson noticed a significant lack of girls in the sport and began teaching his autistic daughter, Auralia, how to skate. He recognized the importance of offering a safe space for young girls in the sport, which already had a reputation for being anti-everything, including girls’ involvement. The Skate School Academy, located at the Ferndale Recreation Centre, was established to provide formal coaching for girls and neurodivergent skaters, including a structured coaching program called Skate Track.
The academy has experienced tremendous success, with several of its pupils earning podium placings at the 2025 South African National Championships. Among them are Ayanda Ndlovu, who won the U16 boys’ division, Ronewa Mudau, who took the U13 boys’ title at just 10 years old, and Izzy Stewart, who claimed the over-13 girls’ title. Among these impressive statistics is Charlie, a young girl on the autism spectrum who, after just six months of training, is now part of the academy’s team.
Parents have noticed significant improvements in their children’s confidence, happiness, and social skills thanks to the academy. Kim de Beer, Charlie’s mother, shared that her daughter has grown in confidence and has formed a group of friends as a direct result of her involvement in the program. Robinson’s dedication to providing an inclusive and supportive environment has proven highly successful, transforming the lives of many children who were previously overlooked in the skateboarding community.
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