Shayok Family Foundation
Our STORY
The Shayok Family Foundation has grown from a powerful family legacy into a transformative force for Ottawa’s youth. Inspired by Makur Shayok, a respected figure in Ottawa basketball who sought refuge in Canada from South Sudan and found opportunity and success through the game, we are building a lasting legacy that goes far beyond sports.
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Led by Marial Shayok, Ottawa’s first NBA draft pick and a direct beneficiary of this journey, the Foundation is committed to guiding young athletes toward success—not only on the court but in all areas of life. We empower youth through a holistic approach centered on three core pillars:
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1. Athletic Development:
Providing elite basketball training that mirrors collegiate-level demands, preparing youth for competition at the highest levels while developing skills, discipline, and mental resilience.
​2. Academic Advancement:
Offering tailored academic support, mentorship, and resources to ensure athletes excel in the classroom and qualify for scholarships that open doors to post-secondary education.
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3. Personal Growth and Leadership:
Fostering character development, life skills, and community engagement to nurture confident, self-aware leaders ready to make a positive impact on their teams, schools, and communities.
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Our vision is bold, and our mission is clear: to help Ottawa’s youth rise and lead with confidence, resilience, and purpose—on the global stage and beyond.
Our MISSION
The Shayok Family Foundation leverages basketball as a tool to ignite personal growth, foster leadership, and create lasting opportunities for Ottawa’s youth. Rooted in community values and driven by a commitment to academic, athletic, and personal success, we equip young people with the skills, confidence, and mentorship necessary to excel both on the court and in life. Our goal is to build champions today and empower leaders who will shape tomorrow’s communities.
Founder and CEO Marial Shayok
Marial Shayok’s Rise from the Capital
​Marial Shayok is a professional basketball player and community leader whose journey exemplifies both athletic excellence and a deep commitment to youth empowerment. Born and raised in Ottawa, Marial’s basketball story began at St. Patrick’s High School, where he led his team to the 2011 NCSSAA city championship. At just 16, he made the pivotal decision to attend Blair Academy in New Jersey, balancing rigorous academics with his ambition to compete at the highest level.
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Athletic and Academic Milestones
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Marial earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Virginia, where he developed both his basketball skills and academic foundation. He later transferred to Iowa State University, where he completed his bachelor’s degree while continuing to refine his game on the court. In 2019, Marial made history as Ottawa’s first-ever NBA draft pick, selected by the Philadelphia 76ers. He went on to represent South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of the Men’s National Basketball Team, showcasing his talents on the global stage.
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Championing Youth and Community Leadership
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Beyond his professional achievements, Marial’s greatest passion is giving back to the community. In 2023, he founded the Shayok Family Foundation to open doors for Ottawa’s youth, providing access to the same opportunities that shaped his own path. Through elite athletic training, personalized academic support, and dedicated mentorship, the foundation equips young athletes with the tools to pursue scholarships, excel academically, and grow into confident, purpose-driven leaders.
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Marial’s vision is grounded in resilience, opportunity, and community. He leads with a commitment to creating programs that do more than develop athletes—they empower young people to overcome challenges, unlock their potential, and make a lasting impact both on the court and far beyond it.
