This past weekend, two-time NBA Champion, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Kawhi Leonard spent four transformative days in Rwanda, using basketball as a catalyst to uplift and empower youth. Headlining the 2025 Giants of Africa Festival in Kigali, Leonard’s visit was packed with purpose—from unveiling a newly designed basketball court to hosting a free youth clinic and meeting with President Paul Kagame to discuss youth investment across the continent.
A Festival of Inspiration and Unity
Leonard kicked off the weekend by co-headlining the Giants of Africa Festival alongside Nigerian pop star Ayra Starr. The annual event drew young athletes, coaches, and creatives from 20 African nations, all gathered to connect, learn, and grow through the power of sport and culture. The festival is part of a broader mission to inspire Africa’s next generation of leaders through basketball and beyond.
Building Legacy: “Built Within” Court Unveiling
As part of the Giants of Africa “Built Within” initiative—a commitment to building 100 courts across Africa—Leonard unveiled a vibrant new outdoor basketball court at St. Ignatius School in one of Kigali’s underserved districts. Drawing from his childhood experience on the blacktops of Moreno Valley, California, Leonard infused the court with personal flair: bold colors inspired by his alma mater, and motivational affirmations like:
- “Play Hard, Have Fun”
- “You Are Stronger Than You Think”
- “Be Great”
These messages aim to fuel confidence and drive in the youth who will play there for years to come.
Elite Mentorship at Youth Clinic
On the final day, Leonard hosted a free basketball clinic for 50 boys and girls aged 12 to 17. The session took place on his newly opened court and focused on skill-building in shooting, ball handling, and defense, while also emphasizing mental resilience and belief in oneself.
Each participant walked away with:
- A custom-designed T-shirt featuring Leonard’s hand-drawn image of a hand holding a basketball, symbolizing divine reward through effort.
- A pair of signature Kawhi New Balance sneakers, a personal gift from Leonard meant to instill pride and motivation.
A Presidential Conversation About the Future
Capping off his visit, Leonard held a two-hour private meeting with President Paul Kagame to discuss long-term strategies for empowering Africa’s youth through sport and education. Kagame later joined Leonard and Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri at a basketball camp at Club Rafiki, where he addressed the young athletes and publicly commended Leonard’s commitment to African youth development.
Global Mission Continues
Kawhi Leonard’s international impact doesn’t stop in Rwanda. Later this month, he will head to China for a 10-day youth-focused basketball tour, reinforcing his global mission to expand access to sport and mentorship around the world.
Through thoughtful design, meaningful mentorship, and powerful partnerships, Kawhi Leonard is proving that basketball can be more than a game—it can be a vehicle for lasting change.