Manock Lual

Prezdential was started by Manock Lual, whose lived experience informs his work and fuels his passion. Manock Lual’s success as a professional basketball player, as head coach, an entrepreneur and a social entrepreneur means something to the youth because they can see themselves in him. During my five years involved in the community, we have proved what we are capable of, we have built relationships with the youth and have already accomplished so much important community building work over the past few years with zero federal funding.

Manock Lual is the right person to do this important work because he was one of these youth. He came to Ottawa as a South Sudanese refugee. He grew up around prostitution, drugs, gang violence, and a lack of resources. He put all of his energy and time into basketball, and because of this investment he was able to earn a full scholarship to the University of Prince Edward Island where he holds records to this day. He then went on to play professionally in England. After breaking records in the United Kingdom, he was drafted by Ottawa's first professional organisation: the Skyhawks. Before retiring, he represented the South Sudanese national team internationally.

He knows what these youth need because he is a part of their community, because he was one of them. He is able to reach and connect with these youth in a meaningful way because he represents the community he serves.