Ghanaian skateboard judge Harmonie Psar Bataka has described her experience at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games as an incredible honour, urging young Ghanaians, particularly girls and women, to pursue opportunities and take up space in their chosen fields.
Bataka made history as the first Ghanaian to be selected to judge skateboarding at the Youth Olympic Games, becoming the first Ghanaian judge to officiate at an Olympic Games event.
She served on the Men’s Street judging panel as Judge 5, representing Ghana alongside judges from France, Brazil, Australia, the Netherlands and the United States.
Reflecting on the historic experience, Bataka said working alongside some of the world’s best judges was a moment she would always cherish.
“Judging at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games has been an incredible experience and a great honour. Working alongside the best judges in the world is a moment I will always cherish,” she said.
The Ghanaian, who is also a skateboarder, encouraged young people to remain alert to opportunities in their various fields and not hesitate to put themselves forward.
“To young Ghanaians, keep your eyes open and stay aware of the opportunities available to you in your various fields. Don’t be afraid to apply. Put yourself out there and take up space.”
Bataka also used the opportunity to encourage more girls and women in Ghana to take an interest in skateboarding, stressing that the sport offers valuable lessons in confidence and resilience.
“And to the girls and women in Ghana, let’s get into skating. It is such an incredible sport, full of valuable life lessons about confidence and resilience. Skateboarding isn’t just for men. There are so many amazing girls and women skaters I have witnessed around the world. Let’s get out there, get on our boards and have fun!”
Looking ahead, the history-making judge expressed her desire to see Ghanaian skateboarders compete on the Olympic stage while more women take up leadership and technical roles within the sport.
“I can’t wait to see the first Ghanaian skateboarder represent us at the Olympics, and to see more girls and women stepping into roles as judges, coaches and leaders, helping to grow and push the sport forward.”
According to Ghana Skate, Bataka earned the opportunity after undergoing judging courses and progressing through the World Skate system.
Her historic achievement at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games serves as another significant moment for Ghanaian sport and could inspire more young people to explore opportunities beyond competing as athletes.
By: Victoria Kwofie
