BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – The European Union (EU) has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting youth development by partnering with Emaswati Skate to host the EU Skate Contest, an initiative that brought together more than 100 young participants and highlighted the growing role of sport in building confidence, resilience and life skills.
The contest was held on June 6, 2026, at the EU-supported skate park based at Mbabane Coronation Park, attracting aspiring skaters from Mbabane, Siphocosini and Nhlambeni. The event formed part of activities marking 50 years of partnership between the European Union and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Participants, ranging in age from under seven to 35 years, competed across multiple categories, showcasing not only skateboarding talent but also the power of sport to promote healthy living, discipline and positive youth engagement.
Officially opening the event, European Union Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, said skateboarding plays an important role in teaching young people life skills that extend beyond sport.
“Skateboarding teaches valuable life lessons. It encourages young people to overcome failure, learn from their mistakes and keep trying until they succeed. These are important skills that can help them in education, employment and life in general,” he said.
He further praised the local skating community for creating a safe and positive environment where young people can build confidence, discipline and a sense of belonging while pursuing their passion.
European Union Head of Cooperation, Eva Maria Engdahl, expressed appreciation to the communities of Mbabane, Siphocosini and Nhlambeni, as well as parents, volunteers and organisers, for their support in making the event a success.
She also welcomed the participation of young girls in the competition, encouraging continued efforts to ensure inclusion in all sporting disciplines.
“We are encouraged to see the participation of young girls and would like to see more of such inclusion in all sports. Events such as these demonstrate the power of sport to bring communities together while creating opportunities for young people to develop confidence and life skills,” she said.
The event also underscored the impact of the long-standing partnership between the European Union and Eswatini. Since 1976, the partnership has supported a wide range of initiatives in youth empowerment, education, governance, sustainable development and community development.
Community investments such as the EU-supported skate park at Coronation Park continue to provide safe recreational spaces where young people can develop their talents, build friendships and contribute positively to their communities.
Throughout the day, spectators were treated to exciting performances as skaters competed across different categories, demonstrating creativity, determination and technical skill.
In the Beginners Under-14 category, Sibiyo Nkombule claimed first place, followed by Sakhile Nhlengethwa in second and Msimisi Mngomzulu in third.
The Girls category was won by Amaya El-Kaakour, with Annabel El-Kaakour finishing in second place.
Mongi Niggines took first place in the Beginners Open division, ahead of Bruno Shongwe and Mawande Dlamini.
In the Advanced Juniors category, Cristophe Peres Gomes secured first place, followed by Cruz Peres Gomes and Maphila Kunene.
The Advanced Seniors division was won by Max Ndwandwe, with Mpendulo S. Gama in second place and Mkhulisi Matsebula in third.
Momotho Shongwe emerged victorious in the Advanced Girls category, while Joanna Churchyard placed second.
Although winners were celebrated, organisers emphasised that the true success of the event was the opportunity it provided for young people to learn, grow and express themselves through sport.
The contest concluded on a positive note, reinforcing the role of skateboarding in youth empowerment and highlighting the continued impact of EU–Eswatini cooperation in creating opportunities for the country’s young people.
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