IN CONVERSATION WITH NIGEL SYLVESTER

interview MAREK BARTEK

American professional BMX athlete, creative, entrepreneur, filmmaker, and philanthropist Nigel Sylvester's career has extended beyond traditional BMX biking through his progressive riding style, innovative content creation, and one-of-a-kind artistic expression and style, making him one of the most recognised athletes around the world today. Nigel's drive to give back to communities around him has led him to start the Nigel Sylvester Foundation, dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved youth, uniting diverse communities, and other charitable causes, in July of 2021.

From BMX athlete to entrepreneur, filmmaker, and philanthropist—your career is incredibly diverse. How do you balance these different paths of your life, and what drives you to excel in so many areas?

Balancing my roles as a Professional BMX athlete, entrepreneur, creative, and philanthropist comes down to my passion and purpose. Each aspect of my career feeds into another, creating a beautiful synergy around the things I love. My love for BMX will always remain at the core, but it’s more than a sport for me; it’s a way to truly express myself and inspire others. This expression forms the foundation of my entrepreneurial ventures, philanthropy efforts, and overall creative output. My drive in these areas comes from a deep desire to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in BMX and life.

You’ve been recognised on Forbes’ '30 Under 30' list and featured in ESPN’s 'Body Issue.' How do these achievements reflect your journey, and what do they mean to you personally and professionally?

Being recognised on these pres8gious lists is a milestone that reflects the unwavering belief, hard work, and dedica8on I’ve put into my career. These achievements represent more than personal accolades; they signify a shift in how BMX and street culture are perceived globally. Growing up, I didn't see many people who looked like me or from similar situations getting this kind of recognition, so it’s empowering to know that my work is helping break those barriers.

These moments reinforces how far I’ve come—from a kid riding in Queens to standing alongside some of the world’s top athletes and entrepreneurs. Professionally, they motivate me to keep pushing the envelope and show the world that BMX is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle, an art form, and a platform for change.

Your progressive riding style and content creation have brought BMX to a broader audience. How do you see the future of BMX evolving, and what role do you want to play in shaping that future?

My goal has always been to push the boundaries of what BMX can be and bring it to a broader audience. For me, BMX is a form of self-expression and creativity. Through my riding style and content, I want to showcase its power, influence, and ability to galvanise communities. The future of BMX is all about breaking down barriers, blending it with other creative industries like fashion, music, and film, and continuing to inspire new riders from all walks of life.

The sport of BMX continues to evolve as a global movement that is not confined to competitions but embraced as a creative plaOorm, a lifestyle, and even a tool for social change. The current digital landscape gives us the opportunity to share stories and perspec8ves that weren’t previously visible. I strive to be at the forefront of that evolution, helping to elevate BMX into a space where it’s recognised not just as a sport but as a cultural force that impacts global industries. I’m inspired to continue innovating, collaborating, and inspiring the next generation to take BMX even further.

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blazer OUER STUDIO
necklace TALENT’S OWN
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blazer & pants OUER STUDIO

Being the first-ever professional BMX athlete signed to Jordan Brand is a groundbreaking achievement. What does this partnership represent for you and for the sport of BMX as a whole?

Being the first-ever professional BMX athlete signed to Jordan Brand is a monumental achievement. For me, Jordan represents greatness, change, legacy, and the constant pursuit of seKng new standards—values that I connect with deeply. This partnership is a testament to my love and passion for BMX. It validates years of hard work, perseverance, and my commitment to pushing not only my limits but the limits of what people have come to believe is possible in this sport. I hope this partnership inspires people to dream vividly and believe there’s no limit to what they can achieve.

For the sport of BMX, this partnership represents a massive shiH. It shows that BMX is more than just bike riding—it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a form of expression that resonates with a global audience. Our collaborative work will continue spotlighting the sport and increasing its presence within the culture while staying true to its roots.

You’ve collaborated with Nike and Air Jordan to create iconic sneakers. Can you tell us about the creative process behind designing your signature AJ4 RM and what that experience meant to you?

My time at Nike and Jordan thus far has been phenomenal. Having the opportunity to design and story tell on silhoueVes like the Air Jordan 1, Nike SB Dunk Hi, Air Force 1, Air Ship, and most recently, the AJ4 RM. Each of these shoes embodies a unique energy and deeply connects to Nike’s heritage and the global sneaker community. As a kid, I was heavily inspired by sneaker culture and what Nike and Jordan brand represented. Being the first BMX athlete ever to have the opportunity to collaborate with the brand in this capacity is a game changer.

The creative process around my AJ4 RM ‘Grandma’s Driveway’ was all about taking it back to where it all started for me and using the opportunity to celebrate and upliH the black women in my life who helped raise me. As well as merging the worlds of BMX and sneaker culture authentically. I wanted the AJ4 RM design to reflect elements from the driveway where I fell in love with bike riding.

This collaboration was extra special because it allowed me to revisit my childhood, the people, places, and things that played a significant role in my development. This story resonated and connected with people around the world because it was real and relatable. I set out to create an emotional connection with the people and bring them into my world beyond BMX.

As someone who’s constantly pushing boundaries in sport and art, where do you find inspiration for your next big project or idea?

Inspiration is everywhere, and I move through the world with my receptors open to it. Allowing myself to feel and experience my environment. Getting lost in music, conversations, movies, and taking time to be silent. It’s tremendous power in silence. In this ever-evolving world, I’m constantly drawing from the things around me.

One thing BMX has taught me is the process of channeling my inspirations and putting action into them. Taking something that profoundly moved me and materialising it. Whether it’s a new trick, art piece, business, etc., I’ve developed a system that helps me get the most from the things that inspire me.

Ul8mately, my inspiration comes from a desire to keep progressing—not just in BMX, but in how I express myself and connect with people through life. I want everything I touch to reflect growth, to show a new layer of who I am and where I come from. That drive to innovate keeps me moving forward.

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top OUER STUDIO
pants TOKYO JAMES
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jacket & pats CAMPER LAB
shoes nigel sylvester X AIR JORDAN 4 RM SP

The Nigel Sylvester Foundation focuses on empowering underserved youth. What inspired you to start this foundation, and what are your long-term goals for the impact it can have?

The Nigel Sylvester Foundation was established in 2021, and my mother was my biggest inspiration to launch it. My mother, Ann Sylvester, led by example and showed me the power of giving back. My goal is to continue her work and honour her sacrifice through the NSF.

BMX riding became my way to see the world and live out my imagination, but I know not everyone can access a bike. Knowing how powerful the bicycle is, I decided to position the foundation around giving the gift of motion and empowering kids through financial literacy. We’re dedicated to providing underserved youth the opportunities, mentorship, and resources they need to chase their dreams and find their own paths.

Looking back on your career so far, what are some of the key lessons you’ve learned, and what advice would you give to young athletes and creatives who aspire to follow a similar path?

A key lesson I’ve learned on my journey is the importance of staying true to yourself and your vision, fighting for it no maVer how unconventional it may seem. BMX wasn’t always seen as a traditional path, especially for young black kids, but my love for bike riding wouldn’t allow me not to chase my dreams. There were challenges, setbacks, and a lot of hard work involved, but the passion kept me going. Surround yourself with people who support your vision, be relentless and stubborn, and don’t stop till you reach where you’re going.

Another big lesson is that you have to be willing to adapt and evolve. The world is constantly changing, and opportunities can come in unexpected forms, whether in the sports world or through creative projects. You need to stay open, continue learning, and not be afraid to exist in uncomfortable environments.

TEAM CREDITS

talent NIGEL SYLVESTER
photography MYESHA EVON
styling CHASIDY CHEVONNE
lighting direction PAULA ANDREA POULSEN
photography assistant NIKKI CARDONA
digital tech KARL FERGUSON
producer JESSSIE OH
production assistant ANDY KIM
editor-in-chief TIMI LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN