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How a teen father used the local skate park to change the world
Jan 23, 2025
Jayden Sheridan, a young father from regional Victoria, transformed his passion for skateboarding into a powerful community initiative called Gnarly Neighbours. He shares how his difficult upbringing, marked by homelessness and violence, fueled his desire for a better life for his son. They discuss the healing power of skate parks and the importance of mentorship for troubled youth. Jayden emphasizes how skateboarding became a refuge, fostering connection and resilience in his community while helping kids find their own paths amidst adversity.
51:18
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Quick takeaways
- Jayden Sheridan transformed his challenging past into motivation for positive change by creating the Gnarly Neighbours charity to support local youth.
- The success of Gnarly Neighbours demonstrates the importance of community engagement and mentorship in empowering young people and fostering resilience.
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Challenging Beginnings
Jayden Sheridan faced a tumultuous childhood marked by instability and neglect. Growing up in Seymour, a disadvantaged town, he was often left to fend for himself due to his mother's mental health issues and absence of positive male role models. As a result, he engaged in destructive behaviors like fighting and drug use, gravitating toward the local skate park, which provided him a sense of belonging and identity. This space became crucial for Jayden, offering an escape from his chaotic home life and a path to his future aspirations.
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