The Kinbridge Community Association, in partnership with the Preston Heights Community Centre, is using sport to help develop the next group of community leaders.
Through its free basketball training program, youth in Grades 7 to 12 can learn the game while developing life skills and forming connections with their peers.
Natu Mekasha, a former player at Conestoga College, and a collection of his friends came up with the idea in hopes of giving back by spreading their love of the game.
"It's important to offer this to youth to keep them engaged and out of trouble," Mekasha, who also serves as a Youth Engagement Coordinator at Kinbridge, said.
"It provides them with the opportunity to receive high-quality training from experienced trainers, which they might not otherwise have access to."
Mekasha is joined by Conestoga College head coach Avery Sutton and former Wilfrid Laurier University player and current assistant coach Chuder Teny in running the program.
For the three former players, providing free access to the game is beneficial both on and off the court for those involved.
"We hope to teach them life skills beyond basketball, showing them that there is more to life than just the sport," Mekasha said.
"Our aim is to inspire them to become future leaders in their communities and to pass down these values to the next generation."
With a focus on leadership skills, dedication and forming a strong work ethic, Mekasha wants the youth to take what they learn and use it to better those around them.
"A program like this benefits the community by positively impacting the youth, who in turn become better people and leaders," he said.
"We have witnessed firsthand how basketball can influence young people to develop leadership qualities and contribute positively to their communities."
Participants in Grades 10 to 12 hit the court inside the Kinbridge Community Centre on Aug. 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
On Aug. 17, players in Grades 7 to 9 get to work on their skills from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Registration can be made here.
