Holi Members & Friends,

We’re thrilled to share updates from our Annual General Assembly (AG) held on July 8, 2024. For those who couldn’t attend, here’s a summary of the past year’s highlights, ongoing projects, & exciting plans for the future!

Presentation of Past, Present, & Future Projects (2023 - 2025)

Our President & Vice President led a presentation covering our association’s impactful projects, with a strong focus on art, skate, & inclusivity.

2023 Highlights:

• Green Line: An art exhibition in Barcelona centered on environmental themes.

• No Taboo On Your Tattoo: A month-long tattoo artist residency in Barcelona, celebrating deep-sea themes.

• 8M: International Women’s Day Activation in Barcelona.

• Poetry Jackson: A vibrant painting exhibition & open mic event in Barcelona.

• Go Skate Day: An event supported by Venero, Amigos, & Sour skateshops in Barcelona.

2024 Events:

• Epiphany: Skate contest, “Pimp My Board” workshop, & art exhibition in Barcelona.

• 8M: Another empowering International Women’s Day Activation in Barcelona.

• Yoga, Art & Skate: “Pimp My Board” workshops combined with yoga, skating, & brunch events in Barcelona.

• Benchmark Festival: Our SOA Paris booth featured at Nozbone’s annual skate & music festival in Paris.

2025 Planned Events:

• 8M: Celebrations in Barcelona & Paris for International Women’s Day.

• Yoga, Art & Skate Events: More of these community-centered events in Barcelona & beyond.

• New Collaborations: Events planned with Connect Festival in Bordeaux & Realaxe (a Paris-based girls’ skater community).

Ongoing Projects (2023 - 2025)

Some of our key initiatives continue to grow & evolve:

• The Grip SB Podcast: Co-produced with Sundries Production, this skate lifestyle podcast is fueled by SOA Paris, creating a platform for skaters & artists to share their stories.

• Pushing Against Racism Campaign: Supported by a Skateistan grant, we’re activating this campaign in Nairobi, Kenya, with GirlsSkate Nairobi & Close Call Skateboarding. Through skate classes, contests, & creative workshops, we’re promoting mental health, self-care, & resilience among local youth.

• Roll Models Program: With funding from Skateistan & Women Win, we’re launching this initiative in 2025 in Marseille. Aimed at young adults (16-25) with Down syndrome, the program combines skateboarding with photography & videography, bridging communities through shared experiences. Classes will be led by women & non-binary individuals, & the program will conclude with an exhibition spotlighting local skate artists.

Current Agenda & Opportunities

The assembly’s agenda was approved, & we’re looking forward to expanding our community engagement. We’re currently seeking an Executive Assistant (volunteer) to join our team & help bring these projects to life.

Additionally, we welcome all members & friends to share their stories on The Grip Skateboarding Podcast. Whether you’re a skater or an artist, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved! Volunteer with us for upcoming events, contribute to our “Pushing Against Racism” campaign, or bring your unique vision to the table.

Thank You for Rolling With Us! To everyone who supports SOA Paris, your dedication is the backbone of our Art & Skate community. With your help, we’re making a difference through inclusivity, art, & the shared passion for skateboarding. Let’s keep pushing forward together!

Photo by Mariana Rodrigues (@marianarns)