Creativity in Motion: The Skate & Create Story  

Posted on Categories Arts, Sport, Tags

St Andrew’s Park was buzzing with energy on Sunday 10th August as Skateboard Jersey and artist Kelly Eastwood teamed up for Skate & Create – a free community event funded by Connect Me that brought together creativity, movement, and a touch of skate culture. 

The idea was simple but inspired: offer an afternoon where people could skate, have fun, and try something active, while also exploring creativity through art. Skateboard Jersey ran engaging sessions on ramps, giving everyone a chance to practice, play, and enjoy skateboarding, while artist Kelly Eastwood hosted a creative workshop alongside it. The combination of movement and imagination made for a lively, hands-on experience that celebrated community, creativity, and connection. 

While Kelly led the creative side, helping families transform cardboard into tiny works of skate art, Skateboard Jersey ran their Sunday Carvery sessions nearby, turning the park into a hub of activity and connection. 

Breaking Barriers and Building Confidence 

Behind this project is Phil Minity, Chairperson of Skateboard Jersey. Phil and Kelly both began as Community Connectors for Connect Me, so this collaboration was a natural fit – and a great example of how local ideas can grow into something much bigger. 

For Phil, skateboarding is about more than tricks or boards; it’s about resilience and joy. 

“You quickly learn there’s failure on the way to success,” Phil said. “Overcoming those moments gives you a massive rush of joy and I love when people experience that.” 

By removing financial barriers, Connect Me funding has helped Skateboard Jersey open up their sessions to everyone. Whether it’s through coaching, pop-up events, or creative workshops like this one, the aim is to make skateboarding accessible, social, and inspiring. 

Connecting Through Creativity 

Skate & Create showed how art and sport can come together to strengthen communities. The event encouraged families to take part, try something new, and discover new ways to express themselves – all without needing specialist equipment or experience. 

Thanks to Connect Me’s support, Skateboard Jersey has been able to expand its reach and form stronger connections with local artists, organisations, and families across the island. 

This is what Connect Me is all about – creating opportunities, building confidence, and helping ideas roll forward. 

What is Connect Me? 
Connect Me: Connecting Our Communities is a Government of Jersey grant scheme that supports projects encouraging community participation in arts, culture, and physical activity. Grants of up to £5,000 are available to help bring inclusive, engaging initiatives to life. 

Explore More Through the Connect Me Directory
The Connect Me Directory, previously known as Elemental, is a digital platform where Islanders can explore and engage with a wide range of community-based activities and services aimed at improving health and wellbeing. It features:

  • A searchable directory of social-prescribed local programmes, from cultural events to physical activities and mental health support.
  • The flexibility to self-serve or seek assistance from a Link Worker, who can help individuals access tailored support.
  • A platform for GPs and healthcare professionals to refer patients to social prescribing services and activities via trained Link Workers.
  • Stories, blogs, and videos showcasing successful community projects.