Surf Tourism | Universal Outreach

Surf
Tourism

The youth of Robertsport, Liberia want a better tomorrow. A tomorrow where fishing isn't their only option for employment. A tomorrow where they learn, grow and share their passion for the ocean with a global community.

Universal Outreach—in partnership with dedicated organizations, individuals and the Robertsport Surf Club—is embarking on an economic development initiative to create a hub for all surf and ocean-bound activities. Together, we can ensure sustainable surf tourism is a reality on the beaches and waves of this seaside community.

Project Update

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Program Update

In this short video, you'll walk through the site of the new Robertsport Surf Club Economic Development Initiative. The youth in Robertsport are passionate about surfing and have a vision for the future - all they need is an opportunity to bring their dream to life. They have demonstrated their commitment by forming a county-wide surf association and securing the land needed to house the infrastructure. Universal Outreach partners with the association to provide financial support, oversee construction projects and mentor the start-up of the business. Phase one is 95% funded with the remaining needs listed below. Contact us to learn about the exciting funding needs for phase two, which include formal accommodations, international standard hospitality training and surf reserve designation.

Home of Surf Tourism

Several programs are on offer to ensure the youth in Robertsport have the skills needed to bring their vision to fruition. The first step was hospitality school. Four surfer's graduated from their training and are now operating the restaurant at the Robertsport Surf Club. Waves for Change, with support from Mami Wata and the Universal Outreach Community conducted a surf therapy program to train local coaches. Surf therapy provides a safe space for surfers to manage their feelings and brings the group closer together with mental health exercises implemented through well research and proven a curriculum.

An ISA supported water safety program and Surf Instructor Course was offered to the community to ensure they had the skills they need to earn an income and keep their clients safe.

Photo Credit: Jason Boswell

Construction Update & Operations

Thanks to Cross Culture Care, Arthur Bourbon, the Swiss Embassy and other private donors, thew following facilities have been built: retail centre, water tower, washrooms facilities, restaurant, surf clubhouse and water well. A solar power system is installed and providing power to the Surf Club. Four camping platforms are available offering everything a guest needs to make the most of this magical coastline.

The Surf Club is now fully operational with support from Universal Outreach in the form of mentorship and program support for beach clean up, The Passionate Surfers Club, Girl's Surf and adult literacy courses.

Get involved!

10th Annual Liberia Surf Competition

$25 - Contribute to the awards ceremony
$50 - Fund a person to attend the ISA surf comp judge's training
$100 - Help a local surfer get to the event - transportation and lodging
$500 - Give a scholarship to a Liberian Surfer

Give the gift of skills training

$50 - Lifeguard training for one person
$75 - Hospitality training workshop in Liberia for one person
$100 - Provide a youth access to a surf therapy program for one year
$1,000 - International Surf Association (ISA) Instructor training in Liberia for one person