Meet Your Instructor: Federico Kessler at We Are Salty People
Every lesson at We Are Salty People is taught by Federico Matías Kessler, an IKO Level 3 certified kitesurfing instructor with over 11 years of teaching experience, more than 5,000 teaching hours, and 1,300+ students taught. There are no assistant instructors or rotating staff — Federico personally handles every session.
Qualifications
IKO Level 3 Instructor (IKO #40442) — the highest standard teaching certification from the International Kiteboarding Organization. Level 3 means Federico is qualified to teach all levels from absolute beginner to advanced, train assistant instructors, and manage a certified kite centre.
Experience
Federico has been teaching kitesurfing since 2014 across multiple countries and conditions. His experience includes not just lagoon teaching but also ocean environments, strong wind, and challenging conditions — including sessions at Nazaré, one of the world’s most powerful wave spots. This depth of experience translates directly into better safety awareness and more effective coaching for students at every level.
Why One Instructor Matters
At most kite schools, you might get a different instructor each day. That means re-explaining your level, adjusting to a different teaching style, and losing continuity. At We Are Salty People, Federico knows exactly where you left off, what you need to work on next, and how to adapt the lesson to your specific learning pace. This consistency is one of the biggest advantages of a boutique school.
Teaching Approach
Federico follows the IKO teaching methodology but adapts to each student individually. He uses radio helmets for real-time feedback in the water, keeps sessions focused on practical skills (not lengthy theory), and prioritises safety without making the experience stressful. The goal is always the same: build your independence as a rider, not create dependency on the instructor.
Languages
Lessons are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Federico is a native Spanish speaker (Argentine) fluent in English and Portuguese.
Ready to start?
📲 Message Federico on WhatsApp
🌍 Explore lessons at wearesaltypeople.com
— We Are Salty People