At École Notre Dame De La Providence, fifty young women, aged between 15 and 19, gathered on a newly constructed basketball court, one of many brought to life by the Giants of Africa foundation.
This dedicated space for empowerment formed a crucial part of the 2025 Giants of Africa Festival, where the sport served as a valuable tool for building confidence, fostering leadership, and promoting a sense of belonging.
These sessions were designed to encourage personal growth and self-expression, inviting them to consider their aspirations and voice their perspectives. They engaged with coaches and mentors in an informal, supportive setting intended to inspire and uplift, where encouragement was shared readily, much like a ball on the court.
Among the participants was Nemori Habayo Ikaze, a Senior Six student, who expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities for personal development. For her and many others, the day highlighted the positive impact that comes from being recognized, supported, and given the chance to develop. It was evident that providing young women with strong foundations helps them build capable futures.
Themes of unity and shared progress were prominent throughout the event. One of the coaches reminded the group that while individual efforts can yield quick results, greater achievements and lasting impact often come from moving forward collaboratively. The message resonated: empowerment is a collective endeavor, and every voice within that group contributed to the shared experience.
As the session drew to a close, Masai Ujiri, the founder of Giants of Africa, returned to the court he helped establish and was visibly impressed by the atmosphere. “When I look at this exciting court, I’m excited to come back because of your energy,” he remarked, acknowledging the positive spirit of the girls.
Photos by Teta Atfah
