Turning Pain into Purpose: Dave Jonsson’s Visit to Maui

This month, we were stoked to welcome Dave Jonsson and his son Jett to Maui! Dave—known for his inspiring message of turning pain into purpose—brought encouragement, laughter, and incredible skate skills everywhere he went. His visit embodied the heart of our vision at One Love Skate: to connect with people through skateboarding, ⬆️knowing the love, ⬇️showing the love, and reminding everyone that hope is stronger than hardship.

Throughout their time on island, Dave and 9 year old Jett joined us for an unforgettable week that blended skate, story, and faith. Dave shared at three schools—Maui Christian Academy, Maui Prep School, and a local preschool—where students were encouraged to see challenges not as roadblocks, but as stepping stones toward growth and purpose.

He also spoke at churches—Waipuna Chapel Makawao, Eternal Riders Paia, Waipuna High School Youth Group, & Awana Upcountry—sharing his story of faith and resilience with communities hungry for hope. At Waipuna Chapel Makawao, he even skateboarded over Pastor Todd & Pastor Josh right inside the church—a moment that had everyone cheering and perfectly captured the joy and creativity of sharing the Gospel through skate culture! His testimony about breaking his femur in a plane crash & God putting a new song in his heart is known & shown in a new way after the impressive Ollie!

The week also included Acts 4:20 Group at Paia Youth and Cultural Center, where skaters gathered for a time of encouragement, prayer, and community. Dave connected deeply with everyone he met, reminding us all that God’s purpose often grows out of our pain.

Beyond that, Dave and Jett skated all six skate parks across the island, connecting with skaters of all ages and backgrounds. Everywhere they went, they brought joy, humility, and a message that God can use even our hardest moments to bring healing to others. ⬆️Know the Love ⬇️Show the Love!

Over the weekend, they joined a community event in Hāna, where skate, faith, and friendship came together in true One Love fashion.

Dave’s visit wasn’t just a series of events—it was a reminder of why we do what we do. At One Love Skate, our vision is to see lives transformed by the One Love of Jesus through connection, compassion, and Christ-centered community. Watching Dave share his story and shred across the island reminded us that purpose is found not in avoiding pain, but in allowing God to redeem it.

Mahalo, Dave and Jett, for inspiring Maui with your message and your skills. We can’t wait to roll together again soon! Thanks for being an International One Love Rep in Canada!

God is so good.

⬆️Know the Love

⬇️Show the Love

1 John 4:9

-The One Love Skate ‘Ohana

🛹 Dave Jonsson Recap!

Turning Pain into Purpose: Dave Jonsson’s Visit to Maui