Nakiya’h Longstreet, a 20-year-old West Englewood native, is set to launch Skate Englewood, a free skateboarding program for local kids near Lindblom Park. The initiative will provide lessons, equipment, and mentorship to youth in an area where skateboarding is not commonly seen.
Longstreet’s journey from a 6-year-old novice to a skilled skateboarder embodies the discipline and determination he hopes to instill in the next generation. “I proved to myself that I could do whatever I put my mind to,” Longstreet said, reflecting on his years of practice.
From city-wide skater to neighborhood mentor
Longstreet honed his skills by traversing Chicago’s public transit system to reach skate parks across the city. His dedication led him to spots in West Town, Logan Square, and Uptown, often spending hours commuting and practicing.
“I would set aside at least three hours a day or four days a week for skating,” Longstreet explained. “By the time I was 15, I got better at skating with quick trucks, jumping stairs, grinding the rails and going fast.”
Now an art school student, Longstreet is bringing his expertise back to West Englewood. He plans to provide free skateboards and safety equipment through funds raised via GoFundMe.
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Building more than just skating skills
Skate Englewood aims to be more than just a skateboarding program. Longstreet envisions it as a platform for mentorship and personal growth.
“For most kids, it’s not common to see a Black person or someone that looks like them skateboarding in the area,” Longstreet said. “I want to encourage them to do something that’s unique.”
The program will incorporate:
- Life lessons alongside skateboarding basics
- Art creation activities
- Therapeutic aspects of skating
Longstreet has already begun building obstacles for a DIY skatepark, including a wooden “manny pad” for beginners to learn tricks.
Overcoming challenges and inspiring others
At Grant Skate Park, where Longstreet has been a regular since 2015, his persistence is evident. Despite falls and injuries, he continues to push himself, demonstrating the resilience he hopes to cultivate in young skaters.
“My main goal is to keep challenging myself and keep growing in areas of skating,” Longstreet said. “For kids, I want to be the mentor I didn’t have growing up.”
Looking ahead
While Skate Englewood is still in development, Longstreet is already active in the community. He taught free skate lessons this summer and will help youth design skateboards at the upcoming Englewood Music Festival.
Next summer, Longstreet will offer lessons through the Chicago Park District’s Go Grind Chicago program. In the meantime, he encourages families to approach him for impromptu lessons or boards if they spot him skating near Lindblom Park.
As Longstreet prepares to launch Skate Englewood, he’s not just teaching tricks—he’s paving the way for a new generation of skaters in West Englewood, armed with skills, confidence, and a fresh perspective on their community.
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