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Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy
This project's parent organization is Jala Peo Foundation NPC
It operates in South Africa
It uses Outdoor pursuits
Winner of the
More about Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy
The Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy (DMA) uses the sport of mountain biking (MTB) to foster hope and empower underprivileged youth to seek solutions to their challenges—unemployment, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and low levels of education and literacy.
By focusing on the values of courage, commitment, concentration, and consistency—which apply to both mountain biking and life—the DMA works to boost the self-confidence of its 70 members (aged 9-23), through the implementation of the following programs:
- MTB coaching: members follow a training program monitored by a UCI registered coach on a weekly basis. This affords them the opportunity to work and play towards improved health in a safe and controlled environment.
- Competitive events: A 16 member race team competes at school, and Federation provincial and national events.
- Youth leadership: Leadership is encouraged through the appointment of team captains who oversee all rider activities.
- Academic support: Attendance to weekly Math and English tutoring sessions is mandatory for all members aged 9 to 17 years.
- Mentorship: Team captains are assigned a mentor who guide and assist them in planning their goals; in turn they mentor younger members.
- Nutrition: Volunteers ensure that members receive a balanced meal at least twice a week.