COMO Journeys, Youri Zoon inspire youth through kitesurfing at COMO Cocoa Island

The idyllic sands and crystal-clear waters of COMO Cocoa Island provided the perfect backdrop for an exceptional community engagement programme on Tuesday. This initiative, part of the COMO Journeys programme, was organised in collaboration with world-renowned kiteboarder Youri Zoon. The event aimed to inspire and engage high school students from the nearby island of Guraidhoo, with a day filled with learning, adventure, and inspiration.

The morning session featured a kitesurfing workshop on a picturesque sandbank. Under the expert guidance of Youri Zoon, the 15-year-old participants were introduced to the basics of kitesurfing. Youri’s passion for the sport and his exceptional skills made the workshop an unforgettable experience for the young participants.

Youri Zoon’s journey to becoming a world champion kiteboarder is a testament to his determination and resilience. Beginning his career by building his own kitesurf board, Youri won his first championship on this very self-made board. Kiteboarding became his ultimate passion, offering unparalleled freedom. Despite losing two and a half years to injuries, Youri’s determination to return to the sport never wavered. Today, he emphasises the importance of learning through enjoyment and looks forward to seeing the youth he taught become proficient kiteboarders, eager to teach them new tricks in the future.

Following the exhilarating workshop, the students enjoyed a delightful lunch at Ufaa Restaurant while engaging in conversation with Youri. During this session, a video presentation highlighted Youri’s journey and achievements in the kitesurfing world. The interactive Q&A segment allowed the youth to connect with Youri on a personal level, drawing inspiration from his experiences.

Followingly, Ahmed Mujthaba, Principal of K. Guraidhoo School, addressed the students, emphasising the importance of gratitude and overcoming obstacles to achieve success. He highlighted the significance of sportsmanship and discipline, deriving from Youri’s story as a prime example of overcoming challenges to achieve greatness.

The day concluded with a special ceremony where certificates were awarded to the participants, recognising their enthusiasm and effort during the workshop. This moment celebrated not only their participation but also their potential and the promising futures ahead.

COMO Cocoa Island, through its COMO Journeys programme, plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and supporting youth development. Abdulla Wisam, Director of Rooms at COMO Cocoa Island, spoke about the collaborative nature of the event and expressed hope for more engagements with the local community through the COMO Journeys programme. He extended his gratitude to the students and the principal for their participation in the event with Youri.

The event focused on sparking youth interest in sports, providing them with a memorable experience of joy and learning, and fostering a fun and engaging environment. As the youth bid farewell to COMO Cocoa Island, they left with unforgettable memories and newfound motivation to pursue their passions.