Akol Magok recently led a squad of Wyndham youth to the Junubi Stars Basketball SSANBA Tournament in Sydney. He discussed his story with Jaidyn Kennedy
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I grew up in South Sudan and was living in a refugee camp in Cairo Egypt before coming to Australia in 2003. I am part of Junubi, a community led organisation. I coach and support young people between eight years to 12 years through a range of basketball programs. Junubi is a structured, dynamic program to support young people to become better versions of themselves through engaging in basketball activities, exercises and casual games to promote healthy and active lifestyle habits and for young people to form positive social connections. I am passionate about helping young people to feel included, have purpose and make a positive contribution to the Wyndham community.
What is your connection to Wyndham?
I love Wyndham and moved here eight years ago with my wife and six children. I work in Wyndham for Junubi and am part of the local All Nations church in Werribee so I am closely connected with the community. I wanted my children to be able to grow up in a family friendly environment with close access to schools, parks and playgrounds, sporting and recreational facilities. Wyndham is a great community for families.
What do you like about where you live?
I love the Wyndham community. I feel privileged and very grateful to live here. The people are friendly and support each other. As a community it has lots of benefits; there are lots of open spaces and places for families and children to get together. There are plenty of shops and we have everything we need – you don’t need to leave Wyndham.
Where is your favourite place to spend time?
I enjoy taking my family out on weekends in Wyndham. My children love the Werribee Zoo and enjoy seeing all the animals and Werribee South beach is a great place to take the kids in summer. For young people my favourite place is Eagle Stadium as it is a place where they can come together, be active and play basketball for fun. It keeps kids engaged, participating and helps them feel included.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
They might be very surprised to know that I am currently studying theology and am a gospel minister at the Hope for All Nations Church in Werribee. I deliver positive weekly sermons every Sunday on a range of topics.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would like more sporting facilities and more parks and open spaces with basketball facilities. Sporting facilities are so important for communities like Wyndham. We need to encourage kids to engage, participate and join with others. It keeps them focussed and that’s why we need more sporting infrastructure and outdoor parks with basketball courts.
