OUR TEAM
At Friends of Wilmington Skateparks, we are proud to be a 100% volunteer-based organization. Every event we host, every park we maintain, and every initiative we undertake is driven by the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals who donate their time and talents to the skateboarding community we cherish. From our committed board members to our enthusiastic volunteers, none of us receive compensation. We are unified by our shared passion for skateboarding and our commitment to making a positive impact on our community. We sincerely thank each and every team member for their invaluable contributions, as we know that without them, our work would not be possible. We are Friends of Wilmington Skateparks - united by passion, powered by volunteers.
Gabriella de Souza
Executive Director
A native Wilmingtonian and avid skateboarder, Gabriella graduated from UNC Wilmington with a B.S. in Biology & Environmental Sciences and a M.S. in Biology. In her free time, she is an active volunteer for the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County. Gabriella founded the nonprofit, Friends of Wilmington Skateparks, which aims to support the Wilmington skateboarding community through park maintenance, expansion, and community events. She also serves as the secretary for the NHC Cooperative Extension Advisory Council and previously served on the City of Wilmington Parks and Recreation Advisory Council, and the NHC Parks Conservancy Board of Directors. Connect with Gabriella via LinkedIn.
Chris Trent
Board Member
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Chris has lived in North Carolina since 2000. He started skateboarding at 13 in the mountains of Ashe County, NC. An advocate for the skate community and long time supporter of clean and friendly communities! Chris graduated from Wilkes Community College and studied Psychology at UNC Wilmington from 2014-2016.
“Skateboarding is a passion that allows for freedom and to do what you want, how you want.” - Chris
Tessa Morin
Communications & Graphic Design Intern
Tessa is from Hopatcong, NJ and is a student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She is planning on majoring in Marine Biology and has a love for the environment. Tessa picked up skateboarding over quarantine, but is still new to the skateboarding community. She wants to get more involved with skating and develop her skills further. Tessa wants to learn more about her new community by helping out and being an active member in Friends of Wilmington Skateparks!
Hampton Porta
Board Member & UNCW Skate Club Liason
Former Communications & Graphic Design Intern
Born in NC, and living all over the country, Hampton has developed a diverse palate for skateboarding and art of all kinds. Currently a communications student at UNC Wilmington, Hampton serves as the marketing officer for the UNCW Skate Club and is an avid graphic designer. Hampton has a strong passion for skateboarding, art, environmentalism, and giving back to the community!