As far as job descriptions go, it doesn’t get much cooler than ‘professional skateboarder’
And yet, it’s one that Poppy Starr Olsen has had since she was just 15, when she became a world champion for her age group at 2014.
The Newcastle local first picked up a skateboard at the age of 8, and even has a skate ramp in her bedroom (SO badass)
Poppy has won countless awards for skating (despite often being the youngest person in her division) and now, has sights set on the 2020 Olympics.
Oh, and just in case all of that wasn’t cool enough, she also makes and sells jewerelly in her spare time.
Just by being her authentic, kickass self, Poppy has amassed over 48,000 followers. Here, we chat to the 18-year-old about how she uses the platform to connect with her fans, find a sense of community in a male-dominated sport and find inspo for her creative hobbies.
What made you decide to start your Instagram?
I started my Instagram ages ago! It was actually on my first skate trip to America when I was 11 and I wanted to post the silly photos I had taken of everything that was new to me.
As a professional skateboarder, how does Instagram allow you to show your fans who you are when you’re not skating?
I have so many hobbies other than skating and it’s fun to show all things I’m doing (like art and piano etc) on Insta as well.
Has Instagram allowed you to connect with a wider community of female skateboarders?
Definitely, I’ve linked up with so many skaters through Instagram. It’s been an awesome way for female skaters to find each other and build our community. I’ve become best friends with people I’ve met through Instagram.
You’re a very creative person, learning to make jewellery and play piano in your spare time. How does Instagram help spark inspiration for these creative pursuits?
It’s really been so cool to have Instagram as a resource tool to find people. I can follow such a variety of different creators that inspire me to learn and try new things. I love it.
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