From the quiet streets of Puerto Viejo, Sarapiquí, Costa Rica, to the sun-soaked skateparks of Santa Teresa, Jessie Gonzalez Alvarado’s journey is fueled by passion, perseverance, and community.

Growing up in a small town with few outlets, Jessie found his escape through skateboarding. At age 13, watching his older brother and friends skate sparked a fascination that quickly became an obsession. A single skate video, Baker 3, ignited a lifelong drive to push limits, master new tricks, and embrace the culture of skateboarding.

Skateboarding, for Jessie, is about more than tricks. It’s about connection. The community is welcoming, supportive, and fiercely inclusive, offering guidance, encouragement, and friendship to anyone willing to try. The thrill of landing a difficult trick is just part of the motivation—the true fuel comes from the camaraderie and shared love of the sport.

This dedication extends far beyond personal progression. Since moving to Santa Teresa nearly 15 years ago, Jessie has become a pillar of the local skate scene. He cares for the town’s skatepark and founded STCR Skateschool in 2018, bringing skate and surf skate lessons to countless kids. Through sponsorship programs, over 100 kids have received free lessons and equipment, giving them an outlet, confidence, and purpose. Jessie’s philosophy is simple: skateboarding changed his life, and he wants to do the same for others.

Jessie’s creativity isn’t confined to skating. A six-year background in classical music taught him rhythm, tempo, and structure—all of which inform how he teaches skateboarding. Lessons are paced like a musical composition, emphasizing flow, breathing, and timing, creating a learning experience that is both mindful and exhilarating.

At the core of Jessie’s journey is resilience. Falling, getting back up, and trying again is a lesson he applies both on the board and in life. “I can’t do it” doesn’t exist in his vocabulary. Landing his first varial kickflip was a defining moment—a milestone that confirmed skating would always be a part of him.

Even his upbringing plays a role. Raised in a religious household, Jessie carries the values of respect, empathy, and community into every aspect of his skating life. They shape how he mentors young skaters, cares for his peers, and fosters an inclusive environment where everyone has a place.

For Jessie Gonzalez Alvarado, skateboarding is more than a sport—it’s a platform for impact, growth, and connection. His story is a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose: lives are changed, communities thrive, and the thrill of skateboarding becomes a lifelong journey.