Gode Katembo is a CCAA Torchbearer

Posted: Apr 26, 2023

Having learned through personal experience that sport can be a catalyst for positive change, Gode Katembo launched programs to assist and unite multiple diverse communities. For his efforts to support and strengthen society, Katembo is a 2022-23 recipient of the CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by Hudl.

Katembo, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, is a Social Science student at Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) in the provincial capital. He is a fifth-year defender with the Blazers Men's Soccer team.

Katembo was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and lived in a refugee camp in Uganda for seven years before immigrating to Canada with his family. As with many refugees, he faced challenges and obstacles while trying to integrate, including language barriers, financial constraints, peer pressure and racism. However, through sport, and more specifically soccer, he was able to overcome these barriers.

"As a newcomer to Canada, soccer provided me with a second family and prevented me from associating with the wrong crowd," said Katembo. "I was able to obtain mentorship from older team members, parents, and coaches. I believe every immigrant, refugee, and low-income youth needs role models who are committed to their athletic, academic, personal, and mental growth."

It's this belief that drove Katembo to develop not one, but three programs to bridge the gap in the sports community and make sports affordable and accessible to all, regardless of age, race, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status.

In 2019, Katembo started the Manitoba African Cup of Nations Tournament, an annual eight-week soccer tournament that combines soccer matches with inter-cultural programs showcasing various art, music, cuisines, crafts, and small businesses with the aim unite Manitoba's diverse communities. The 2022 African Cup of Nations Tournament featured more than 250 players from 12 different African nations, 40 volunteers, promoted 30 local businesses, and had more than 5,000 attendees.

Youth development and opportunities have also been a primary objective for Katembo. 'Sport Without Boundaries' aims to provide affordable, accessible sporting programs for kids ages 7 to 18, while also empowering them with life skills to help them thrive and navigate through life. Finally, the 'Beyond Sports' program aims to empower teens aged 15 to 18 with skills that will help them excel during their formative years and make the best decisions for their future.

"Gode leads large teams of volunteers and participants so seamlessly that it can be easy to forget how many barriers to participation he has overcome and removes for others every day," said Cara Isaak, Director, Athletics at CMU. "He is truly changing the world in a way that few people do."

Katembo is passionate about all future possibilities and is hopeful that similar programs and opportunities will emerge across Canada.

"Being recognized for my efforts is a testament to the power of sport and its ability to bring people together, regardless of their background or circumstances," said Katembo. "I hope that my story inspires others to give back to their communities and continue making a difference."