Red Bull athlete and South African skateboarding star Brandon Valjalo has become one of the country’s most recognisable figures on four wheels. As skateboarders around the globe celebrate Go Skate Day, Valjalo reflected on the sport that transformed his life and why he believes South Africa’s skateboarding future is brighter than ever.
For Valjalo, Go Skate Day is much more than an annual event. It is a celebration of friendship, fun and the sense of belonging that skateboarding has provided him since he first stepped on a board.
“Go Skate Day is a reminder of why I started skateboarding in the first place. It’s about getting together with friends, skating, having fun and celebrating the culture that has given so many of us skateboarders a sense of belonging.”
said Valjalo
The South African star credits skateboarding for opening doors he never imagined possible. The sport has taken him around the world, introduced him to lifelong friends and shaped him both personally and professionally.
On the board, skateboarding taught him discipline, resilience and patience through years of trying tricks, overcoming setbacks and learning how to keep going after falls. Off the board, those lessons have translated into everyday life by helping him stay committed to his goals and navigate challenges with confidence.
As a Red Bull athlete, Valjalo says the partnership has been instrumental in helping him reach new heights. Through international travel opportunities, video projects, competitions and access to high-performance training and recovery resources, he has been able to focus on progression while also giving back to the skateboarding community.
He has used his platform to mentor young skaters through workshops and demonstrations, hoping his own journey inspires others to chase their dreams.
With South Africa’s skateboarding scene continuing to gain momentum, Valjalo’s message to young skaters is simple: enjoy the process and be patient.
“Everyone falls, everyone struggles and everyone progresses at their own pace. Focus on having fun, skating with friends and learning something new every session.”
he explained
Looking ahead, Valjalo describes the future of South African skateboarding in three words: “Inclusive. Limitless. Inspiring.”
He believes more people from diverse backgrounds are embracing the sport than ever before and that the emerging talent in the country has the potential to make a significant impact on the global stage.
Valjalo also hopes non-skaters begin to see skateboarding differently. While many people focus solely on tricks, he says the culture is rooted in creativity, self-expression and community, with every skater developing their own unique style and approach.
When it comes to recovery from the inevitable falls and injuries that come with the sport, Valjalo believes preparation is key. Prioritising sleep, hydration, mobility and proper recovery habits, along with the occasional ice bath, helps him stay ready for whatever challenges the next session may bring.
As Go Skate Day reminds the world, skateboarding is far more than a sport. For Brandon Valjalo, it is a community, a creative outlet and a lifelong journey that continues to inspire a new generation of South African skaters.