Vanderful / Seeds of Hope ODV
2019 - 2024
Vanderful Cape Verde
Below you can read Federico’s account of facilitating a Surf Craftsmanship workshop by himself in collaboration with the Djunta Mon Community, in Mindelo a town on the island of São Vicente in Cape Verde.
Coordinating this project was an amazing experience, it was so moving to see how dedicated the participants were throughout the two months. In the past, our Surf Craftsmanship workshops have been with younger people, so this was the first time I witnessed this kind of work ethic and dedication. When you work with younger participants, it’s more about the final product rather than the process, during this project the participants all cared about every single step they took to shape and build their Paipo bodyboards.
I really appreciated the guys’ commitment as all of them have full-time jobs, they still dedicated time in their busy schedules to attend the workshop twice a week.
I also loved the vibe, as most of the participants didn’t know each other before the project, so we all became good friends. Everyone helped eachother, gave suggestions and made jokes with each other, it was so much fun!
The environment definitely enhanced our experience working on the roof top, over looking Mindelo with a view of the other islands and the ocean.
I am so proud of the guys and what they achieved. I really hope they will continue making wooden Paipo bodyboards.
The best feeling was when I heard back from the guys after their first surf with the Paipos… they said:
‘it was the best bodyboard they’d surfed in their lives!’
It was so great to hear that, knowing Vanderful Paipos are made completely from natural materials, there’s zero impact on the local marine environment, which was the reason I was in Cape Verde in the first place! This is because I am currently studying a Masters in Marine Biology in order to do what I can to protect the ocean and its creatures. It’s so gratifying to implement sustainable practices and share skills with others to help them to do the same!
‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’
Give children the chance to play.

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Seeds of Hope ODV is an Italian registered
Volunteer Organisation / Organizzazione di Volontariato (C.F 94148280301)
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IT94 S087 1512 3000 0000 0727 402