Misión México were the first to introduce surfing to this rarely surfed region of Mexico primarily through Alan Skuse and his sons over fifteen years ago. The power and positivity of surfing is something that I strongly relate to and is what really drew me to volunteering at the refuge in the first place as I know first-hand how life changing the sport can be. For these children who have faced tough and at times horrific pasts all of a sudden these stresses, hurts and pains seem to magically disappear during their time in the water while they focus solely on the thrill of surfing. Sure these problems may still be there when they set their feet back on the sand or perhaps still lingering in the back of their minds but for maybe one of the first times in their short lives they may have something truly positive to fall back on. Beach days at Misión México were definitely some of my favourite times while I volunteered and it was great to see children from all ages enjoying the ocean and the waves whether it be on surfboards, bodyboards of merely swimming in the sea. While surfing is awesome from a fitness point of view it is also an amazing tool to help build the self confidence, strength and character in these young people and it is great to see them develop as a person as their surfing abilities improve over time. It was always good times and fun vibes spending the day at the beach with these funny and crazy kids and no matter what the surf conditions everyone always managed to have fun. Many of the children truly love their surfing and the spirit of surfing in strong here with big wipeouts, friendly drop-ins and party waves being common place along side some impressive surfing skills. The beach days are definitely one of the highlights from my stay at Misión México and it is something I think I will always miss...well that and the amazing kids of course.[Continued Below]