"As an international student athlete, I remember going home to Nigeria every two years to renew my visa. I always tried to bring stuff back to people who were there in my young athletic career, like my coaches and close friends. In my first two years of college, I always noticed that at the end of every season some of the guys threw away their old shoes; and for me this was baffling because I know people who need shoes like this. So, I decided to collect the ones the were in fairly decent shape and with the help of one of my team mates, Frank Martin, who gave me more of his old shoes, I was able to take home a bunch of used sneakers in 2015. I did not just give them to my close friends and coaches, but I also gave sneakers to people who needed them the most and the sincere appreciation and feedback I got was so astonishing, one could not help but be compelled to try to help others. I remember coming back to the United States and I got a message on Facebook, from one of the guys I gave a pair of basketball sneakers to, it was filled so much appreciation and honest gratitude. The sneakers were not even mine, it was a pair Frank gave me, and so I got to share with Frank about what impact a simple pair of his old shoes made. To us, here in the United States, it was just a pair of shoe we did not want but to him, and many others, it meant everything and that began the strive to help many others. One pair of sneakers could mean more than you think to someone's dream; it could be the reason some of these kids keep on playing the sport they love or it could be a huge motivation. My dad always used to say, "We do our part and God does the rest," giving back is our part and if it helps someone in any capacity, shape or form then so be it. I am excited to be a part of something bigger than myself. If we can help one person that starts a positive impact into motion, one person at a time one day at a time. We can impact the world positively, so no matter how small you can help and in any capacity, it will directly change lives."

- Naanma Yamsat

  Founder of NaijaOutreach Sports