In a world where sports can unite and inspire, Samaritan’s Feet leveraged that power through volleyball in Nigeria by serving with the Youth Volleyball Mission. For many of the players in this program, volleyball is more than just a game—it is a source of hope, a chance to strive for something greater. And Samaritan’s Feet is committed to empowering these players to reach their full potential and realize that hope.
How Samaritan's Feet and Volleyball Are Creating Brighter Futures in Nigeria
Recently, Kathy Slyder, in her role as Regional Development Officer and Sports Initiative Manager for Samaritan’s Feet, along with a father and daughter, Rez and Cambria from Tampa, FL, embarked on a long-awaited journey to Lagos, Nigeria, to witness firsthand the impact of the Youth Volleyball Mission. What they experienced was nothing short of life-changing.
Cambria, a young woman with a deep love for volleyball, has spent the past three years collecting volleyball shoes, gear, and apparel for young athletes in Africa. This trip to Nigeria was an opportunity for Cambria and her father to see the impact of her selfless efforts.
For Cambria, the experience was surreal. As soon as she arrived in Nigeria, everyone was eager to meet her and take pictures. But the most profound moment came during the second day of tournament play when she was given a team to coach. As she looked at the players, she noticed that three of them were wearing the very volleyball shoes she had once worn and donated. In that moment, the connection between her efforts and their impact became clear. Handing out uniforms she had collected from schools and clubs in Tampa, Cambria witnessed the tangible difference she was making in the lives of these young athletes.
For Renz, too, the trip was deeply impactful. He watched his daughter not only coach but also bond with the players, seeing firsthand how her small act of kindness had the power to transform lives. Together, they distributed shoes, socks, and jerseys to teams, helping to equip these young athletes for success both on and off the court.
Kathy’s experience at the University of Lagos was another reminder of the mission’s profound impact. On her last day, Coach Ib, a dedicated leader in the Nigerian Youth Volleyball program, took her to his university. There, they encountered a young man who had started in the volleyball program at the age of 10. Now, thanks to the opportunities provided by the program, he is attending university and playing for the collegiate team, with aspirations of going professional.
As Kathy reflects on her journey, she is struck by the realization that something as simple as a gift of shoes can lead to incredible outcomes. For many of the players, volleyball is more than just a game—it is a source of hope, a chance to strive for something greater. The sparkle in their eyes as they played spoke volumes about the power of sports to uplift and empower.
During their time in Nigeria, the Kuipers visited various volleyball facilities, coached young players, and distributed much-needed equipment. They also took time to explore the local culture, from visiting a nature reserve to experiencing the vibrant energy of Lagos’s bustling markets.
Reflecting on their journey, the Kuipers expressed a sense of safety and fulfillment throughout their time in Nigeria. They encourage others to experience the transformative power of service, personally experiencing the joy that comes from making a difference in the lives of others.
As Kathy, Renz, and Cambria return home, they carry with them stories of hope and transformation. Samaritan’s Feet, through its Youth Volleyball Mission, is not just providing shoes and gear—it is opening doors to education, opportunity, and a brighter future for young athletes in Nigeria.
