Ali Boulala: “The fact that perpetrators hide behind fluffy avatars makes me want to puke.”

He’s the skateboarding icon who made his mark around the world — both on the board and through his uncompromising personality. But behind the legend of Ali Boulala is also a person who can no longer look away from the realities children face. Through his involvement with ChildX, he’s gained a brutal insight into the world of grooming, trafficking, and sexual exploitation. It sparks both anger and action — and a strong urge to do something real.

When did you first hear about ChildX, and what drew you to the organization?
I’ve followed the Secretary General for a long time, since we both come from the skateboarding scene. That’s how I became aware of the issue — and of ChildX.

Has anyone inspired you to want to make a difference for children?
Knowing what’s happening out there makes it impossible for me to sit back and do nothing. I’m grateful that through ChildX I’ve learned about everything from trafficking to grooming — and that perpetrators are wherever kids are. That line really stuck with me.

My brother’s kids are heavy into gaming, so I was really impacted by ChildX’s campaign Unusual Suspects. The fact that predators hide behind fluffy avatars and cute characters makes me want to puke. I had never really thought about it before — but now I can’t stop thinking about how disgusting it is.

Which issues within child sexual exploitation are you most passionate about?
It all matters, but I really believe we need to focus more on prevention — making sure kids don’t get harmed in the first place. That means spreading awareness and information so everyone understands what this problem looks like, and how we can all be part of the safety net. We all have a role to play.

What’s the best part of being involved with ChildX?
The fact that maybe I can actually do something useful. And being able to channel all my frustration into real change. Also: not having to do it alone.

Why should others support ChildX’s work?
The more, the better. The more of us who get involved, the further the knowledge and awareness can reach.

Is there a book, movie, or song that’s inspired you to want to make a difference for kids?
There’s a film from 2007 called Teeth, where women’s vaginas grow teeth that bite off unwanted advances. That concept really resonated with me.

How do we get more people involved in the fight against child sexual abuse?
Follow ChildX on Instagram, buy their jewelry, and talk about this issue in your everyday life. And of course — become a monthly donor so ChildX can keep making a difference month after month, year after year.

Working with child exploitation can be mentally exhausting. What helps you recharge?
For me, it’s music. Playing music is how I shake off the dark thoughts about the world. When you’re playing, it’s almost impossible to focus on anything else. It’s like meditation.