Building Bridges Across the Atlantic: Senegal

Rebuilding Bridges: Senegal Project

If you are reading this, first and foremost thank you. For showing interest and wanting to support in whichever way you can.

I am SO excited to share the details of this project with you all. We want to send 20 surfboards and 2 barrels packed with surf/skate supplies from New York City to Dakar, Senegal. It's not this simple though. The drive behind this project isn't to send a bunch of supplies, but bridge out two communities separated by almost 4k miles of water. We want to nurture connection and uplift our family across the sea.

This is a collaboration between myself, SaltiWater Foundation— a Nonprofit based in NYC, Laru Beya Collective—a 501-C3 nonprofit empowering the youth of NYC through surfing, mentorship, and environmental stewardship, Phase Surf Shop— a local surf shop/cafe based in Rockaway Beach—and our incredible partner on the ground, Babacar Thiaw, the founder of Surfrider Senegal and a driving force in the senegalese surf community. Together, we’re working to help expand access to surf culture and equipment for local youth and surf communities in West Africa.

Why We're Doing This

There are 330 miles of coastline across Senegal. The surf scene is still underdeveloped and small. but the level of surfing done across all generations is incredible. while the ocean is right there—but access to quality surf gear is limited. Through this shipment, we’re supporting local surfers, empowering youth, and helping to grow a culturally-rooted surf movement that connects wellness, joy, and liberation.

What Your Donation Does

Your donations will go directly toward purchasing fins, screws, leashes, traction pads, and more at wholesale prices through our partner, @phasesurf. Any remaining funds will be donated to a local school or surf camp in Senegal, supporting youth development and education on the ground. Whether you give $5 or $500, you’re part of this story.

Even if you can’t donate right now, please share this with your community, especially with surfers, travelers, and ocean lovers who believe in expanding access and global surf equity.

Stay Connected

We’ll be sharing updates, photos, and videos of the crate's journey and the moment it arrives in Senegal. Follow along and ride this wave with us!