Jesse Parkinson
Jesse Parkinson is one of those people who we’d imagine can pick up anything and he’d naturally be brilliant at it.
A snowboarder, a surfer, a musician and a lovely, lovely guy. A lot of people think that just because you’re good at surfing, you’ll automatically be good at snowboarding, but if you look at the way Jesse throws himself around on the snow you’ll probably reconsider the sheer talent it takes to do what he does. Now I know what you’re thinking. Snowboarding isn’t actually one of our four pillars at Monster Children, but Jesse’s so talented that we have to make an exception.
Who are you?
I'm Jesse Parkinson, an eighteen-year-old snowboarder, surfer and musician.
What do you do?
I'm a professional snowboarder.
How long have you been doing that?
I started snowboarding when I was nine, but have been surfing pretty much my whole life.
Where do you live?
Yaroomba (Sunshine Coast), Queensland.
Photo Left: Lee Ponzio
If you weren’t snowboarding what would you be doing?
If I wasn't snowboarding I'd definitely be spending more time producing music and pursuing that.
What do you think about the current state of snowboarding?
We’re seeing creativity blossom in snowboarding now more than ever. Alongside the rapid improvement seen each year in competitive snowboarding, the light is also shining on the free ride aspect, with crazy street and backcountry edits coming out each season. I think the diverse genres of the sport express what snowboarding truly is.
What do you do outside of snowboarding and how does that thing influence or affect your craft?
Surfing and music play a big role in my life. Surfing compliments my snowboarding by honing my flow and rhythm. Making music on the other hand nurtures my creativity and mental focus. Whenever I’m composing music I go into a flow state, which is crucial when performing complex tricks and staying present in the moment while snowboarding.
The best/worst thing about the snow industry?
The innovation and creativity in the snow industry is pretty awesome. There are constant advancements in facilities and techniques that push the boundaries of what's possible.
Something you’re most proud of?
Reaching the level of snowboarding I have coming from where I do.
“Biggest challenge? Growing up in a town that is more than 1500 km from the closest place with snow in a country that is not known for snowboarding.”
Biggest lesson you’ve learnt in life so far?
Stay in the moment and enjoy yourself. Be grateful for what you have.
Anything anyone can do today to make the world a better place?
Practicing kindness, tolerance and gratitude. It's cliche but it's true. Taking a moment to appreciate what you have and sharing that with others to spread positivity, or understanding that everyone has their own problems and showing a little patience and understanding, can go a long way.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome so far in your industry?
Growing up in a town that is more than 1500 km from the closest place with snow in a country that is not known for snowboarding.
What is something people might not know about you?
That I make music. I’ve only recently started releasing so most people may not be familiar with that side of me yet.
Who do you think is doing it the best/coolest in your industry right now?
As far as style goes, it would be Dusty Henricksen. Effortless riding style, best drip, easy-going personality.
What do you think the biggest issue young people are facing today?
Social media. Mostly because it can negatively impact so many parts of your life if it's not managed properly.
When did you transition from surf to snow?
I switched over when I was ten. I was dabbling in it when I was nine, but didn’t fully commit until the 2015 Australian Season.
What are the parallels between surfing and snowboarding?
I guess the obvious one is that you are on a board riding water - sometimes it's just frozen - but there's also the connection and flow with nature, a mental approach that requires focus, quick decision making and managing fear, and they're both lifestyle sports. There's a lot to love.
What is a good travel tip for Japan?
Pre-book accommodation. Affordable accommodation fills up fast. Be self aware and respectful. Japanese people are known for their respect and kindness, so try to reciprocate it as best as possible. Also practice using chopsticks, knives and forks aren’t as popular here.
What is your biggest motivation at the moment?
Returning from back to back injuries that kept me off snow for nearly nine months. The setbacks have taught me resilience, reinforced my passion for snowboarding and is driving me to push my limits and come back stronger.