Shayok Family Foundation
Our STORY
The Shayok Family Foundation has evolved from a family legacy into a transformative resource for Ottawa’s youth. Inspired by Makur Shayok, a well-respected figure and maven in Ottawa basketball, who fled South Sudan and discovered basketball as his pathway to success, we are building a legacy that extends beyond sports.
Led by Marial Shayok, Ottawa’s first NBA draft pick, the Foundation is guiding young athletes toward success—not just on the court, but in life. By focusing on life skills and education, we are fostering a generation of leaders ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Our vision is bold. Our mission is clear. Together, we will help Ottawa’s youth rise and lead with confidence on the global stage.
Our MISSION
The Shayok Family Foundation focuses on uplifting Ottawa’s youth by harnessing basketball as a platform for developing essential life skills and educational aspirations. Through a combination of athletic training, educational workshops, and mentorship, we equip young athletes with the tools they need to navigate their journeys and make a positive impact in their communities.
Founder and CEO Marial Shayok
Marial Shayok is a professional basketball player whose career is defined not only by his athletic achievements but by his deep commitment to empowering others. Born and raised in Ottawa, Canada, Marial’s basketball journey began at St. Patrick’s High School, where he played a pivotal role in leading his team to a 2011 NCSSAA city championship. At just 16, he made the bold decision to leave home and attend Blair Academy in New Jersey, balancing academics with his dream of playing at the highest level.
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Marial’s relentless pursuit of excellence took him to the University of Virginia, where he earned an athletic scholarship, before transferring to Iowa State University to complete his degree and further refine his game. In 2019, he was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers, making history as the first-ever NBA player from Ottawa. Beyond the NBA, Marial also represented South Sudan as a member of their Men’s National Basketball Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, solidifying his place on the global stage.
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But Marial’s most significant achievement isn’t his time in the NBA or the Olympics—it’s his commitment to giving back. Throughout his journey, he’s faced numerous challenges, and it’s his resilience that drives his passion for helping others. In 2023, Marial returned to Ottawa and founded the Shayok Family Foundation, with a mission to provide young athletes with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams.
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For Marial, success is not just about personal accomplishment; it’s about creating a lasting impact. Through the Shayok Family Foundation, he’s helping Ottawa’s youth dream bigger, break barriers, and realize their full potential. His vision extends far beyond his own career—he’s building a movement that empowers young athletes to rise above obstacles and achieve greatness.
