I was born in Togo, a place where dreams often have to fight for space. Opportunities weren’t

easy to come by but faith, family, and discipline laid the foundation for everything I’ve

become. Growing up, I saw so many kids around me with talent, ambition, and heart, but no

support system. From a young age I knew that if I ever got the chance to succeed, I had to

make it count not just for myself, but for all those who didn’t get the same shot.

 

Having the opportunity to come to the United States changed everything. I arrived as a

student-athlete with big dreams and even bigger responsibilities on my shoulders. Balancing

school and high-level athletics wasn’t easy. There were early mornings, late nights, and

moments when the weight of expectations felt overwhelming but it was in those moments

that I learned how to dig deep, how to lead, and how to stay focused on something bigger

than wins or stats. It became about growth, discipline, and purpose. Winning the NCAA Final

Four twice is something I’ll always be proud of not just because of the trophy or the

recognition, but because it represents every hour I spent grinding in the gym, every sacrifice

my family made, and every lesson I learned from teammates, coaches, and setbacks on and

off the court. My foot injury during my sophomore year was one of the lowest points of my

journey. It was a really humbling experience and it taught me how to adapt, how to stay

mentally tough, and how to find identity outside of performance.

 

Throughout this journey I also discovered new passions. I fell in love with creativity with

design, storytelling, and the idea of building something meaningful and impactful. That’s

how my brand, ROOTS OF GLORY was born. I did not just see it as a clothing line. I wanted

to use it as a movement built on the belief that greatness comes from humble beginnings and

that our roots are where our true power lies. The brand is inspired by my story but it’s made

for every young person out there who feels unseen, unheard or underestimated because I

believe there are many others that are or were in the same position I once was.

 

As I move forward, I want to be more than just an athlete or a designer. I want to be a voice

for kids in Togo and across Africa, who just need someone to believe in them. I want to

create opportunities through my brand, using it as a platform to fund scholarships, start

mentorship programs, and tell stories that inspire. Every time I step on the court or put my

ideas on paper, I think about them, my people, my roots. This essay represents who I am at

the core: someone who refuses to waste the opportunity I’ve been given. Someone who

believes in giving back, lifting others, and using every gift for a greater purpose. From Togoto the NCAA, the journey hasn’t been easy but it’s been worth every step and it’s only just

beginning.