Jump To The Beat

Looking back, 2019 was definitely a highlight. I participated in my very first competition in Paris and I finished second in the sponsored women’s category. During this competition, there was a category called ‘hippie jump’ and I was the only woman to participate. The move is difficult – it consists of jumping over an obstacle and passing the board underneath. Now it’s what I’m known for! As far as I’m aware, I’m the only woman in the longboarding community to jump fences that high. It was terrifying at first. But, after this competition, I kept seeing more and more girls inspired to try and overcome their fears. That makes it all worth it.

Last year, after becoming world champion of freestyle longboard dancing, I received many offers for new collaborations, adverts, interviews and more. This means lots of other women and girls will feel represented and be able to identify with me. In turn, I hope this will inspire them. I speak five languages including Capverdean Creole, French, Spanish, Portuguese and English and am currently studying languages at the University of Arts in Nice, so it’s hard to balance studies and my passion. Longboarding is slowly taking up more and more space in my life, so much so that I now have my own manager who helps me on a daily basis.

None of this would have been possible if I didn’t love what I do, because my love for longboarding goes far beyond a simple sporting activity. I have developed a kind of unconditional love for the sport. It’s an art and a way of life. When I skate, my problems disappear; I see only positive and beautiful energies around me. Nothing can stop me. My body and mind feel in unison. Longboarding brings me a daily dose of happiness. Without it I would not be who I am today. I carved out my identity with longboarding, that and my hair! My locs represent a crown – I feel powerful and special.

When I see children, young people and adults sending me messages, telling me that I inspire them, I feel so touched by their words that I find it hard to believe. It pushes me to do my best, to get better at what I do and to keep inspiring them, so that they can also find their way; the path that will lead them to happiness.

Who would’ve thought that 2021 would present so many amazing opportunities. My life has changed and I hope I can help others find the same peace. In life you have to fight, and it never stops. When people ask the key to my success, I tell them: work hard, smile, believe in yourself, have fun and never give up. No matter what anyone tells you, the most important thing is to believe in yourself and learn to love yourself along the way.