Valuable Achiuwa, a ahead for the New York Knicks, has been serving to youngsters in Nigeria by way of his nonprofit, What If Limitless, since 2021. The identify comes from a hashtag Achiuwa utilized in highschool: #whatif. This reminded him that each alternative was a brand new alternative.
Achiuwa moved to the USA from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in eighth grade to chase his dream of enjoying basketball. He understands what it’s prefer to develop up in difficult circumstances, and he needs to assist youngsters in Nigeria who’re in the identical state of affairs.
“There are loads of youngsters who had been in the identical place I used to be after I was younger. I wish to present them that something is feasible,” he says. “If I may do it, they will too.”
Each summer time, What If Limitless runs a week-long camp the place youngsters be taught life expertise, get meals, obtain free gear, and spend time with Valuable. In 2023, two fortunate campers had been even despatched to Canada for particular packages. As the recognition of basketball grows in Nigeria, Valuable hopes to make the sport extra accessible for all youngsters.
“This camp is extra than simply an occasion for Valuable. It’s who he’s,” says Nichole Jiminez, Govt Director at What If Limitless. “Not everybody can actually perceive the youngsters they’re serving to, however Valuable connects with them as a result of he shares their experiences. That’s why the camp is so profitable and retains rising.”
