Multi-award-winning actor Forest Whitaker recently touched down onto Cape Town soil where he visited the community of Athlone to unveil a new refurbished basketball court.
Forest, who is the founder of Whitaker’s Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), along with NBA Africa CEO, Victor Williams, and the City’s Deputy Mayor Alderman Eddie Andrews, oversaw Tuesday’s handover as members of the community gathered in awe of the recreational facility and shot some hoops at Cornflower Sports Field in Bridgetown.
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In his speech, Forest said:
“Inaugurating this basketball court is a turning point in the development of our programs in the Cape Flats.
“Its goal is to nurture healthy bodies and healthy minds, providing the children and the youths of the community with a safe space where they can strengthen their stamina and their character. It is a place that will cultivate future NBA champions.”
He added that the youth will come to see this court as an opportunity to take them towards a better life each time they come and dribble their ball.
“We seek to offer basketball as part of our Peace Through Sports Programme. We will soon be developing the community centre here as well,” said Forest.
The actor later added that he hopes to continue his relationship with the City of Cape Town as they both share the same goal and passion for improving the lives of our communities.
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