Giants of Africa, a non-profit organisation co-founded by Toronto Raptors vice-chairman and president, Masai Ujiri, has announced the opening of a new basketball court at Londonderry School in Edmonton, Alberta, sponsored by Sun Life Canada, with support from the Toronto Raptors and MLSE Foundation.
Ujiri said the court, which is the first of its kind outside the African continent, according to Ujiri, marks a significant milestone in Giants of Africa’s 20-year history and underscores the organisation’s mission to empower youths and embrace the diverse African diaspora residing in Canada.
“Our commitment has always been to harness the power of basketball to empower African youth and inspire positive change,” said Ujiri.
“By introducing our first Canadian court in Edmonton’s Londonderry neighbourhood, we aim to create a space that nurtures talent, leadership, well-being and unity, in a community that serves the youth of the African diaspora and beyond, right here in our own backyard.
“The official court unveiling ceremony featured a co-ed basketball clinic and life skills education session conducted by NBA personnel and Giants of Africa coaches. Remarks were shared by my special guests and community leaders,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Sun Life’s Vice-President, Global Partnerships and Marketing Planning, Paul Joliat, said the organisation supporting Giants of Africa was to expand equitable access to community spaces, which helps to ensure youths make healthy living a priority in their life.
“At Sun Life, we are driven by our purpose to help Canadians live healthier lives. Guiding youth to be more active will have a tremendous impact on their mental and physical health for years to come,” Joliat said.
Vice President, Community Engagement & Social Impact, MLSE, Tanya Mruck, remarked:
“Toronto Raptors’ charity, MLSE Foundation works to empower the next generation to reach their full potential by delivering quality sports programming, investing in like minded organisations, and creating safe places for youth to play.
“As long-standing community builders, we believe in the power of place to unite communities through sport and are proud to support Giants of Africa in their first court build off the continent.”
“The basketball court will serve as a development hub, offering a safe space for youth to hone their skills and develop values like teamwork, leadership, and resilience.”
Also speaking at the event, Darrel Robertson, who is Superintendent, Edmonton Public Schools, said: “We are grateful for the revitalised basketball court at Londonderry School. Spaces, like basketball courts, are integral parts of a school community, where students gather to stay active, promote teamwork, improve skills, and connect with one another.
“This vibrant new court will make a difference in the lives of Londonderry School students for years to come.”
Giants of Africa said the Edmonton court is an extension of its commitment to build 100 courts across Africa; “to date, 29 new courts have been unveiled in nine African countries.”
