Just off the coast of West Sumatra, lies the Mentawai Islands, a haven for surfers who travel far and wide to surf some of the best waves the world has to offer. Inspired by travel blogs and picturesque waters so blue you think you’re in a dream; the little island of North Sipora has a place where other dreams are possible.
Two planes, a long boat ride and a scooter later, I arrive at Our Ocean School. Nestled on a busy main strip between family homes and local shop fronts selling fruits and vegetables, the school shares its magical ocean view with the local fisherman fixing their nets. But inside the school is where the real magic happens.
I was fortunate enough to work with OOS for two weeks in October 2024. The classes, taught all in English, are delivered each afternoon and are filled with the most enthusiastic local children. OOS is completely free for any child to attend and is growing its number with each month. Much to the credit to the wonderful, smart and industrious women who founded, coordinated and teach at the school.
Surrounded by water; North Sipora is an island within the beautiful Mentawai’s, yet surprisingly, many local people here cannot swim or aren’t strong swimmers.
During the two weeks, I facilitated afternoon swimming classes teaching basic and beginner swimming techniques such as correct breathing, treading water, floating and simple swimming strokes. The goal here wasn’t to make each student a proficient swimmer, but rather to obtain basic water survival techniques and water safety in the ocean. By the second week, I ecstatically realised I underestimated.
Students, who expressed fright and uncomfortableness in the water, were floating peacefully. Many struggling to effectively move through the water, were gliding through the unpredictable waves. Nervous and timid children were beaming with smiles of exhausted satisfaction of achieving new skills.
As the classes continued, it started to attract families curious to see how their child was progressing – many of the parents expressed they too would love to learn to swim and were keen to see adult classes. It was a perfect combination of local engagement, education and most importantly, fun.
My time at OOS was one of the most rewarding experiences I have been involved in. Working with the students and seeing the incredibly quick comprehension of English, swimming and confidence was beyond poignant. OOS is a testament to the amazing teachers that provide endless care, professionalism and desire to grow young leaders within their community.
It’s not-for-profit schools like these that are the true drivers of meaningful and powerful change to local communities. I have no doubt OOS will continue to grow and provide pivotal opportunities for years to come.
