Testimonials
Today we had Dave come in and speak to our students and the presentation was exactly what we hoped for – more in fact. Dave’s message on the power of kindness and resiliency was expertly woven through the story of his life. While telling us about his experiences surviving a plane crash, being a newcomer to Canada, and a little bit of world history, Dave highlighted the power of being kind and the power of being resilient. Dave’s message resonates so loudly with our school values but it was Dave’s public speaking ability that had our students captivated the second they entered the gym. Walking in and seeing a professional skateboarder doing tricks as they entered set the tone for what was to be, a wonderful experience to bring our community together. Dave’s excellent public speaking skills then took our audience on a wonderful journey through his story - all the while having the audience hanging on every word. Dave’s presentation was a dynamic way to start off our year. - Darren Stewart, Principal of Pitt River Middle School
Dave was absolutely brilliant; his message resonated with both students and staff. His charisma, positivity, and energy were felt throughout the school even after he had left the building. I was truly blown away with how Dave went out of his way to customize his presentation to match our stated school values while still remaining authentic to his own message. I cannot recommend him highly enough! - Talia O’Leary, Leadership Teacher at Palmer Secondary, Richmond BC.
"Dave gave an engaging presentation to our elementary school ( K-5) in April 2023. His message of doing, being, and thinking KIND resonated with our students. His stories were personable, relatable, and impactful. The students were also very excited to see Dave do some skateboarding tricks!! The kids also appreciated his explanation of how to do each trick. I would highly recommend Dave as a presenter. His personal journey as an immigrant, new student, and English Language Learner ensured all our students had a positive role model to connect and relate to." - Tamara Sengotta, Vice Principal of Glen Elementary
Today we had Dave in to speak to the entire school in our gym. As the students entered our gym and saw Dave doing some tricks on his skateboard their energy level went up and the student’s attention was his. Throughout his presentation and the telling of his stories, the students were engaged and interested in what he had to say. Dave’s message was fantastic and very important for our students and staff to hear. His closing stunt left the kids cheering and wanting to see more. We all thoroughly enjoyed Dave’s presentation as his message was relative, passionate, and honest. Brad Downey, Principal at Scott Creek Middle School, Coquitlam BC.
Dave is an enthusiastic performer and dedicated storyteller. He is a heartwarming local skateboarder who engages the audience with brilliant performances and tales. It is an honour to listen to his stories and understand that it is important to not only survive, but thrive!” Fahim Karmali, Teacher at Dr. Charles Best Secondary School
Dave came and spoke to our students in Grade 5 to 7. By the end of the presentation, we all felt like we were good friends with him! Dave’s presentation had our students (and staff) totally captivated. His story is inspiring and he has such a natural way about him as he speaks, interjecting humour and relating to our students in such a way that they left inspired, entertained, pumped, still deep in thought (and wondering whether they were cats or dogs). I don’t know when I’ve seen our students so fully attentive to a presentation! It’s one they will long remember…..we all will! - Derek McCracken, Principal at Topham Elementary, Langley BC.
“We had Dave come to our school, Blakeburn Elementary, to do a presentation around resilience, kindness and a growth mindset. His relatable stories mixed with using skateboarding tricks and demonstrations kept the student’s attention throughout the presentation. The presentation dovetailed completely with what we teach our students every day and our motto, “Take Care of Yourself, Take Care of Others, Take Care of Yourself.” Dave used stories from his childhood to show how words matter, that being kind matters and that each student can make a positive difference in the lives of others. His belief in kindness and taking care of others is heartfelt and our students could feel that throughout his presentation.” Michele Reid, Principal at Blakeburn Elementary, Port Coquitlam BC.
“Dave shared his incredible story with the HD Stafford Middle School community in Langley. Dave made an immediate impact and demonstrated his ability to connect with students and staff alike. Several staff members as well as students remarked that the way in which Dave delivered his message and his interaction with the audience was one of the best guest speaking experiences within a school environment. We look forward to his visit for the follow-up Skate Jam next month. I would recommend Dave to any middle or secondary school – his message is one that you will never forget!” - Carla Clapton, Leadership Teacher at HD Stafford Middle School, Langley BC.
"We had Dave come in to speak to our students at our opening assembly. I can’t say enough about how impressed I was with his ability to connect with our students. He had 1400 students hanging on every word and was incredibly effective with his delivery and ability to weave humour and heartbreak to tell his story. His message is incredibly relevant and reinforced the work that we do every day with our students." - Steve Roos, Vice Principal of Riverside Secondary School, Coquitlam BC.
Dave recently spoke at Mercy Canada, a residential counseling program for young adult women who struggle with life controlling issues such as; eating disorders, self-harm, addictions, sex trafficking, anxiety, depression or an unplanned pregnancy to name a few. Dave has the ability to engage with humor and quick wit while communicating intensely his value of living a life of love and gratitude. Many of our residents enjoyed him and said they would love to have him come back. Several staff commented on what a powerful message he delivered in a relatable way! I would highly recommend him. - Nicola Bartel, Executive Director, Mercy Canada
"When I heard Dave’s story, I knew I had to get him for an “Aberrican Me” on the theberrics.com. It is by far one of the most incredible stories I have ever heard. He is just an amazing individual and his outlook on life and skateboarding blows my mind! This isn’t the last thing you’re going to hear of Dave Jonsson, that’s for sure!" - Steve Berra, Professional Skateboarder & Owner of theberrics.com.
"Dave was tremendous! He made such connection with the youth. He brought energy and enthusiasm to the crowd and allowed for them to connect to him and his story! He is a must have for all schools!" - Adam Hayes, Leadership Teacher at Gleneagle Secondary School, Coquitlam BC.
"Dave came as a highly recommended speaker and he did not disappoint! He presented to our students here at Samuel Roberts Secondary, and after his presentation, many of our students told me how they were very energized and inspired by his story!" - Mike Keenan, Principal of Samuel Robertson Technical Secondary School, Maple Ridge BC.
"Dave inspired our youth and was incredibly engaging. His heart for this generation was so evident and the kids simply loved him!" - Joel Feddersen, Founder & Manager of RUSH Conference.
Dave’s stories are both universal and personal, his message touches all of us. He is able to both entertain and capture the attention of middle school students. Themes of learning to love others and being loved; living our lives intentionally and with pride; recognizing that each of us has gifts and talents to share with our community; are serious and heavy. But Dave addresses them with humour, humility and honesty. His vulnerability allows all of us to reflect on our own lives. Elspeth Anjos, Teacher at Como Lake Middle School, Coquitlam BC.
"As a youth recreation worker, I have been given the opportunity to witness Dave Jonsson speak and connect with youth. Dave has the natural ability to engage an audience and motivate them to be the best versions of themselves. He really is a true inspiration!" - Carissa Keenan, Manager at Greg Moore Youth Centre
“It was fun watching Dave's words and actions speak into the lives of these youth! Dave is a very competent speaker who, even at a young age, has the life experience to speak to people at any age. I felt very encouraged to be a part of that week!" - Rob Laluk, Camplife Director at Esperenza Youth Camp.