Megabi Skate - Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (2024)
In a village in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a skatepark called Megabi Skate, dedicated to the well being and empowerment of young girls, serves as more than just as place for these girls to skate, but a safe haven from the negative influences and tribulations of life. The name Megabi comes from the childhood nickname that founder, Israel Dejene, was given by his father meaning “to bring life to others”.
In 2005, Dejene brought a skateboard to Ethiopia from the states and soon realized that skateboarding could be a gateway into investing in the well being of the next generation, and began teaching the children of his home village how to skate. More children began involving themselves in the skateboarding community Dejene was building, and Megabi skate was born.
After gaining some attention abroad on what the community was becoming, NGOs began visiting and contributing to building facilities such as new skate ramps that would enhance the skateboarding experience for the young children. Over the years, the skatepark that is built becomes more like a home for the children and Dejene gains great attention for his efforts in serving the children of his homeland. Today the skatepark is led by his sister Muluken Dejene, and is still serving the purpose of empowering young generations to establish a sense of purpose in their lives.