Joel Embiid wants to increase focus on youth, infrastructure, and mentorship in Africa

Former NBA MVP and Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid joined Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri for The Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit 2024, where they discussed the investable possibilities in Africa while sharing their personal journeys.

In a portion of the summit hosted by South African media presenter Bonang Matheba, Embiid detailed the situation around his early basketball career and transition from Africa to the United States. Embiid began by explaining the lack of opportunity regarding the diversity of sports.

“It wasn’t until I was 16 years old that I started playing basketball, and it just happened out of nowhere,” Embiid said. “And I was lucky enough because someone saw something in me, and he was one of the guys that gave me the opportunity and really one of the reasons why I’m sitting right here with you guys, but it’s helped me a lot.”

Embiid also spoke on the importance of storytelling and its role in expanding Africa’s influence abroad, referencing his story as a way for fellow Africans to believe and follow their own dreams, knowing that realizing them is a possibility.

“Like you said, it’s all about the youth, and then for myself, I feel like, I just say that there’s a lot of there’s a lot of talent, but a lot of times, we are not seen… But when you’re looking at my story, I just want people to understand that it’s possible. That’s why storytelling is extremely important. Growing up, watching a bunch of athletes in every sport because I watch every sport and just looking at the success and what they did, and that’s how I dreamt because I wanted to be at this level,” Embiid said.

“I wanted to be as successful as those guys and put in the work. And I want people to understand; just look at my story. I wasn’t supposed to be here, honestly. But you know, I also put the work-in because of what was given to me and took advantage of it, and there’s a lot of people that are waiting for that opportunity…I just want people to dream and believe that it is possible.”

Embiid, along with his family, launched The Arthur Embiid & Angels Foundation, which aims to support children who are victims of social divisions through education, health, and sports and promote a healthy and positive environment.

Over the years, Embiid has historically worked to improve the quality of life and increase opportunity in his native Cameroon. This week, Embiid is in New York for United Nations General Assembly week, according to NBA Insider Chris Haynes, speaking at two events, including The Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit 2024.