Kawhi Leonard Teams Up with Ayra Starr at Giants of Africa Festival

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard recently joined forces with Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr to co-headline the 2025 Giants of Africa Festival, a week-long celebration of youth empowerment through sports and culture.

Held from July 26 to August 2 across Kigali, Rwanda, the festival blended basketball, mentorship, and music, uniting young athletes, coaches, and creators from over 20 African countries.

At the heart of Leonard’s involvement was the unveiling of a new outdoor basketball court at St. Ignatius School—a project he personally designed.

Located in an underserved district of Kigali, the court is part of Giants of Africa’s “Built Within” initiative, which aims to construct 100 courts across the continent to foster community development through sport.

More than a physical structure, the court reflects a mindset. Vibrant motivational messages—“Play Hard, Have Fun,” “You Are Stronger Than You Think,” and “Be Great”—are etched across its surface, serving as daily affirmations for the youth who will train and grow there.

Leonard’s presence went beyond symbolism. He hosted a free youth basketball clinic on the newly unveiled court, where 50 boys and girls aged 12 to 17 had the rare opportunity to train with the two-time NBA champion. The clinic focused on fundamental skills—shooting, dribbling, defense—and also emphasized mental fortitude and discipline.

Each participant left with a T-shirt, a pair of Kawhi Leonard’s signature New Balance sneakers, and, most importantly, the once-in-a-lifetime experience of learning from an NBA superstar.

“I just wanted them to see what’s possible,” Leonard said during the event. “If you believe in yourself and stay focused, the game can take you far—just like it did for me.”

Leonard also attended several festival tournaments, taking time to speak with youth and encourage their dreams. His advocacy for sports as a catalyst for change extended to the highest level of leadership—he met with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda for a private two-hour meeting to discuss expanding youth investment through education and athletics.

While the Giants of Africa Festival concluded in Kigali, Leonard’s mission continues. The NBA All-Star is now headed to China on a 10-day international youth development tour, underscoring his global commitment to the game and its future torchbearers.