How are you getting home? – I am going to win!
A Skater’s Journey: Noel Cossa’s Fight for a Dream
At just 21 years old, Noel Jozina Cossa left his home in Mozambique with nothing but a skateboard and a dream. He didn’t know where he’d sleep, what he’d eat, or even where he’d stay – but he knew he had to chase his passion.
The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: he was willing to fight for his future and for the family he left behind.
A Passion Born in the Streets
Noel’s love for skating began at the age of 12, long before Mozambique had any skate parks. The streets of Maputo became his playground, and he and his friends learned by watching each other, pushing their limits with every trick.
“We don’t have anybody to teach us tricks or how to skate. We teach ourselves, and then we pass on the knowledge to younger skaters. That’s how we grow as skaters,” he explained.
Eventually, a company called Skate World Better built a skate park in Maxaquene, giving local skaters a dedicated space to hone their skills. But despite this step forward, the sport remained underdeveloped in Mozambique. And for Noel, staying stagnant was never an option.
A Leap of Faith to South Africa
While scrolling through Instagram one day, Noel stumbled upon a post advertising the Kimberley Grand Slam skating tournament. The prize money on offer was enough to change his life – and he knew he had to be there. With no guaranteed support, he searched for sponsors and, against the odds, secured a bus ticket to South Africa.
His journey took two grueling days. When he finally arrived at the Kimberley bus station on a Tuesday night, reality hit: he had nowhere to go. With no contacts and no place to stay, he turned to Google Maps, searching for the skate park.
However, when he arrived at the venue, he found the gates locked.
As fate would have it, a security guard was patrolling the area. Noel introduced himself, explaining that he had traveled from Mozambique to compete in the Grand Slam but had nowhere to sleep. The guard responded with a simple act of kindness, letting him stay in the security room for the night.
“I am very thankful that he did that for me,” Noel recalls.
Trials and Triumphs
Word of Noel’s journey quickly spread, and soon, the event organisers stepped in to help. They arranged for him to stay in a guesthouse where he could eat, rest, and take a proper shower. The overwhelming support of the skating community fueled his determination.
“The skate park was amazing, and everyone encouraged me, telling me I could do it. That made me believe even more in myself,” he said.
But just as he was finding his rhythm, disaster struck.
During the final stages of the competition, he entered the Cash for Tricks event, hoping to earn some prize money. Mid-trick, he lost control and fell hard on a rail, injuring his lower back. The damage was severe enough that he required six stitches, forcing him to withdraw from the competition.
His hopes of winning the money were shattered.
More Than Just a Competition
Noel had come to South Africa with a purpose – to win and provide for his mother and two sisters back home. “I wanted to do this for my mother. She doesn’t have a job. I wanted to win money so I could support her and pay my school fees,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion.
His mother’s dream is to make their home beautiful for him and his sisters. But with food prices rising and job opportunities scarce, daily survival is a struggle. “Going to bed hungry is nothing new to us.
“That’s why I had to take this chance,” he admitted.
The DFA asked Joel the obvious question, seeing as he had only purchased a one-way ticket to Kimberley: “But how are you getting home?”
The youngster didn’t flinch: “I am going to win,” he replied with a palpable determination.
Looking Ahead: A Fighter’s Mentality
Despite the setback, Noel refuses to give up. His next challenge? The Bloemfontein Grand Slam is happening on Saturday, February 8. “I hope my injury won’t affect my skating too much,” he said, with determination in his eyes.
Beyond that, he has his sights set on the Durban Grand Slam, though visa restrictions may prevent him from competing. But his ultimate goal remains the Kimberley Diamond Cup in March. “I want to compete against the best in the country and see where I stand. That’s my dream,” he said.
Through it all, Noel remains deeply grateful. “The organisers have given me an opportunity I never thought I would have. They let me stay, and now I can attend more competitions.
“I will forever be thankful for that.”
A Heart Filled with Love and a Future Within Reach
Noel Cossa is not just a skater – he is a young man on a mission, driven by love for his family and an unshakable belief in his abilities. His journey is about more than just skateboarding; it’s a story of resilience, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of someone who refuses to let his circumstances define him.
With confidence, passion, and an unbreakable will, Noel’s dreams are just a kickflip away from becoming reality.
If you’d like to support Noel’s skateboarding journey, you can reach out to him at noelcossa585@gmail.com.