Shayok Family Foundation

Basketball Is the Tool. Brighter Futures Are the Goal.

Founded in 2023, the Shayok Family Foundation is a nonprofit organization using the power of basketball to create opportunities that reach far beyond the court. Inspired by Marial Shayok—Ottawa’s first NBA draft pick, 2024 Olympian, and professional athlete—we help youth build confidence, character, and a sense of direction for life and learning.

We believe basketball is a powerful tool to spark growth—in school, in sport, and in life. Through high-impact programs, meaningful mentorship, and strong community partnerships, we support young people as they discover their potential, stay committed to academics, and pursue their goals both on and off the court.

Our programs are designed to meet youth where they are and support their full development: athletically, academically, and personally.

The Shayok Summer Showcase gives Ottawa’s top athletes a platform to compete, grow, and gain exposure to college and university recruiters. This program helps student-athletes take the next step in their academic and athletic journeys.

The Ottawa Shayok Next Wave AAU Team offers elite training, teamwork, and national competition. It also emphasizes scholarship pathways and teaches the discipline needed for long-term student-athlete success.

S.H.I.F.T. (Shayok Hoops Intensive Fundamentals Training) provides year-round coaching that builds strong fundamentals, mental resilience, and leadership skills. Youth also receive mentorship that encourages academic focus and personal growth.

At the heart of everything we do is mentorship that goes beyond basketball. Our coaches guide youth through life’s challenges, help them stay focused in school, and build their belief in themselves and their futures.

Since our founding, we’ve empowered hundreds of youth to grow through basketball—in competition, in character, and in the classroom. Many have pursued post-secondary education through athletic scholarships and academic support. And this is only the beginning. Our goal is to bring these transformative opportunities to every community that needs them.

Real change happens when communities invest in their young people. Your support opens doors to scholarships, education, and brighter futures.

Join us. Help turn potential into achievement, and dreams into reality.

"Participating in the Shayok Summer Showcase was a game changer. The intense competition and expert coaching pushed me to improve my technique, mindset, and mental toughness. Training with Coach Shayok through S.H.I.F.T. has been equally impactful, with personalized coaching helping me get closer to playing at the college level."

Jayden B.