10 Questions with Aleph Surf International
1.) Full Name, Location & Projects.
Rehgert van Zyl. Aleph Surf International. Main Base is in Jeffreys Bay, but we operate throughout Africa, Middle East and Baja, Mexico.
2.) Describe your project and what it does?
Our theme is Restoration through Recreation. We believe in the message of hope that Jesus gives to all mankind 'Behold, I come to make all things new'. So we are in the business of restoration. We do this through 5 means: surf inspired outreach camps, relief work, education, skills development and experiences (tours).
3.) What has been the reason for you to start up your project for the community in which you’re serving?
We all have a choice if we will add value to your community, or be part of the demise of it. You can not really sit in the middle. I wanted to actively participate and bring opportunities to those around me. We help in areas where there is a will and desire to grab hold of these opportunities and to work closely together with local leaders and grassroots movements.
4.) How have you seen using the tool of surfing impacting your community?
Surfing's strength lies for me in the relational aspect of it. Because of the allure of surfing, you have faster access to people and communities you would not otherwise have. It has a way to bypass the restrictions of certain social constructs. It is a very disarming activity.
5.) What challenges do you face on a daily basis?
There will always be the daily admin and logistical challenges that we face. That is understood and alright with me. My concern and challenge has more to do with existential factors. Questions whether what we are doing is really helping, is it really making a difference and are we not just creating dependency, disillusionment etc. Another challenge are the many new startups and organizations not taking into account what others have been doing over a long period of time and come into areas full on 'guns a blazing' which in most cases, are really counterproductive for those long term workers and missions.
6.) What has been one of the highlights or accomplishments of your project?
People coming to know and follow Jesus.
7.) What are your goals for the future of your project?
Getting more people to follow Jesus. All the other goals of our projects will then fall into place.
8.) Share your favorite picture taken of your project and describe why this is your favorite?
This photo I took in 2017 of a young boy with his wood wave riding plank in Ghana. He stood there with such dignity holding his own board. He showed that it is not what others think of you, it is what you think of yourself.
9.) How has your project benefited from the Groundswell Aid community?
Groundswell Aid connected one of our students with Get Smart Education for a university scholarship that helped get her engineering degree, we received boards from Degree 33 Surfboards for Aleph Baja and we had joint missions in fundraising and on the ground response to two Cyclone Disasters that hit Mozambique in 2019 and 2021.
10.) Share with us a word of wisdom that will help your community or the world become a better place?
Never underestimate the power of small beginnings. It is important that you begin and then stay faithful.
