Youth skateboarding programme heads to areas hard hit by Melissa
THE Freedom Skatepark Foundation, in partnership with one of the pioneers of skateboarding in Jamaica, SK876, has launched Peace, Love, Edu-Skate, a new islandwide initiative designed to bring skateboarding-based youth development programmes to communities across Jamaica, with a particular focus on areas impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
The initiative builds on the foundation’s existing programming by extending skateboarding instruction and life skills education beyond Bull Bay, St Andrew, and directly into underserved communities.
Peace, Love, Edu-Skate is expected to reach more than 200 additional youth during its initial phase.
“Skateboarding is more than a sport — it’s a powerful entry point for connection, confidence, and personal growth,” said Blake Burnett, project manager at Freedom Skatepark Foundation.
“This initiative allows us to take proven programmes on the road and respond meaningfully to the needs of young people, especially in communities navigating recovery and change,” added Barnett.
Founded in 2013, SK876 and the Wilmot family are widely recognised as pioneers of skateboarding in Jamaica, having played a central role in the creation of the country’s earliest permanent skate features, including the iconic bowl at Jamnesia in Bull Bay.
Through Peace, Love, Edu-Skate, SK876 brings its long- standing community leadership and skateboarding expertise to a new national scale.
The programme integrates skateboarding with structured learning outcomes, offering youth opportunities to develop constructive conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills; physical health and active lifestyle habits; social connection, teamwork, and communication; and confidence, resilience, and self-expression.
By combining movement, mentorship, and education, Peace, Love, Edu-Skate reflects a shared commitment to creating safe, supportive environments in which young people can build skills that extend well beyond the skatepark.
Hurricane Melissa struck the island on October 28, 2025, bringing death and destruction mainly to Jamaica’s south-western and north-western coasts.
For more information about Peace, Love, Edu-Skate or partnership opportunities, contact freedomskateparkja@gmail.com.
Jamaican youngster Daniel Mattis in full flight at the skatepark in Bull Bay, St Andrew.
