El Salvador’s growing coastal movement is expanding beyond traditional tourism into youth development. The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) has officially partnered with the Panama-born non-profit Waved to launch a three-month pilot program at Punta Mango beach, located in Jucuarán, Usulután Este. Integrated into the nation’s broader Surf City El Salvador initiative, the project aims to build life skills and empower local communities through sports and complementary education.
A total of 94 students from the Agua Fría school in cantón El Zapote will participate in this holistic program, which kicks off with ocean safety, marine conservation, and environmental care. Founded in 2016 by Bastian Barnbeck, Waved uses surfing as an educational tool for coastal rural communities, combining athletic instruction with academic support, soft skills training, and career guidance.
As the pilot progresses through early December, students will also receive targeted English lessons, Spanish academic reinforcement, and hands-on surfing instruction. Tourism Minister Morena Valdez highlighted the importance of initiatives that foster soft skills among children and teenagers in tourist hubs, noting that “for us, all projects that help the communities of our tourist destinations develop competencies and soft skills are vital.”
The initiative reflects strong collaboration between international organizations and local authorities to create sustainable opportunities in coastal regions. Organizers hope to expand the project next year following this initial trial phase, driven by the country’s momentum. As Barnbeck noted, “since the first time we came to El Salvador, we have felt that the entire country is rowing in the same direction—there is a real desire for growth and opportunity here.”