for one another and the environment
FAMILY
a safe and supportive community
MENTAL HEALTH
maintained through surf therapy and nature
WHAT WE DO
Surf Cerrito is an NGO based in Cerrito de la Virgen, a small, low-income community in northern Peru, where many young people face the challenges of growing up below the poverty line.
Our mission is to empower disadvantaged young people through surfing, to encourage them to create the positive change they wish to see in the future. Through surf therapy methodology, we hope to support the next generation by bringing young people together, fostering confidence, and encouraging compassion as they grow into future leaders.
Surfing is more than a sport – it’s a powerful way to build resilience, self-esteem, and a deep connection to nature and eachother. By creating opportunities for young people from underprivileged backgrounds to access the ocean, we hope to inspire positive change and open the door to brighter possibilities.
HOW WE DO IT
SURF THERAPY
Surf therapy is more than surfing. Each session begins with a group charla (conversation) to help students share, reflect, and grow. Combined with the physical benefits of surfing, it builds confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
BEACH CLEAN UP
Our regular beach clean-ups teach children the importance of protecting the environment while fostering a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and pride in giving back to our local community.
SURF COACHING
Our expert instructors deliver high-quality coaching, helping children quickly develop their surfing skills while building confidence in the water.
COMPETITIONS
We enter our young surfers interested in competing in all local competitions, and even have a group of young people competing nationally! One of our dreams is to have an international surf champ from Cerrito de la Virgen.
TEAM BUILDING
Our team building sessions include fun, energetic games in the sand, collaborative surf challenges, and group activities designed to encourage trust, communication, and plenty of laughter.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
After a year of taking part in the programme, the older surfers have the opportunity to step up as junior instructors, helping to guide the younger kids in the water and on the beach. It’s a chance for them to build confidence, take on responsibility, and pass on what they’ve learned
INTO THE SEA
The children spend plenty of time in the water, learning to swim and surf, which builds their confidence and gives them the skills to fully enjoy and explore the ocean.