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Riding the Waves: Young Sierra Leonean Surfer Making Strides at River Number Two

By: Desmond Paine
Sports Correspondent and Founder of Sport For Empowerment Foundation Sierra Leone / Netherlands 


During a recent visit to the stunning River Number Two Beach, renowned for its golden sands and rolling turquoise waves, I had the pleasure of meeting a rising star in Sierra Leone’s burgeoning surf scene. 

Ali Sesay, a talented surfer hailing from the picturesque Bureh Beach on the Western Area Peninsula of Freetown, shared his inspiring journey filled with passion, progress, and newfound international connections through the exhilarating sport of surfing.

Ali’s journey began at the Bureh Beach Surf Club, where his natural talent for riding the waves quickly became apparent. 

He made a remarkable debut during Sierra Leone’s inaugural surfing competition at the club, where he clinched an impressive third place, showcasing both his skill and determination amongst his peers.

Now, entrenched in the vibrant surf culture at River Number Two Beach, Ali is honing his craft with the dedicated team at Ahma Surf School. 

“I love surfing because it helps me connect with other countries and meet different people from all over the world,” he said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. 

The joy he finds in the sport is palpable, reflecting not only his love for the ocean but also his yearning for global camaraderie.

Ali’s story is emblematic of a broader movement sweeping through Sierra Leone, where the sport of surfing is capturing the hearts of the youth and luring tourists to its shores. 

Supported by local surf schools and fueled by the passion of individuals like Ali, this sport is infusing beaches with vibrancy, adventure, and a sense of community. 

It’s about more than just riding the waves; it’s a journey that fosters fitness, friendship, and cultural exchange.

Ali’s journey stands as a powerful testament to the ability of sports to inspire and transform lives, one wave at a time. 

Through his passion for surfing, he continues to build bridges across borders, proving that the ocean has a unique way of connecting us all.

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