The GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG) has announced that GK One is the official title sponsor of the GK One Howard McCatty Community Basketball League for the 2024 season. The partnership builds upon GKFG's ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and promoting youth development through sports, following another successful staging of the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Track & Field Championships (Champs) last month.

"GK recognizes the importance of investing in initiatives that empower and inspire our youth," said Rickardo Ebanks, Chief Digital Officer, GKFG. "GK One is thrilled to be a part of the Community Basketball League 2024 Season and contribute to the continued success of the competition."

The Howard McCatty Community Basketball League has been a cornerstone for young Jamaican athletes providing opportunities for growth, mentorship, and teamwork. With a rich history of nurturing talent and fostering a love for the game, the league serves as a vital platform for aspiring players to showcase and develop their skills on a path to the National Basketball league.

GK One is GraceKennedy’s all-in-one app which offers a suite of GKFG services, allowing users to receive Western Union remittances to their mobile wallet, make bill payments, apply for a First Global Bank Visa Credit Card, and purchase insurance, anytime and anywhere. The app’s companion prepaid Visa debit card also allows customers to pay for goods and services wherever Visa is accepted.

Through the sponsorship, GK One will support the league's mission of promoting sportsmanship, leadership, and academic achievement among participants. The partnership will enable the league to deliver over 100 games throughout the season, provide resources for coaching and player development, and expand its reach within the community.

"We are grateful for the generous support of GK One," expressed Calvin Martin, Vice President and League organizer. "Their commitment to our league will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our players, helping us to further our impact and grow the game of basketball in Kingston and St Catherine. I encourage other corporate entities to follow the lead of GK One and invest in our communities – especially through sports.”

Beyond financial support, GK One will also engage with participating communities by hosting youth basketball clinics, fan engagement events, and supporting mentorship programmes led by the league. Players and fans will also benefit from access to financial services offered by GKFG.
GK One and the Howard McCatty Community Basketball League look forward to a successful 2024 season and partnership focused on empowering young athletes, fostering community connections, and inspiring the next generation of basketball stars.

In a powerful initiative to uplift the spirits of inner-city youth, boxing champion Sakima Mullings is set to take centre stage at the Majesty Garden Basketball Court and Community Centre on Tuesday, November 21 at 5:00 p.m.

Joined by the Southern Basketball Conference (SBC) and the Majesty Gardens Life Skills and Sports Project, the former Contender champion, aims to inspire the children of Majesty Gardens to reach for the stars, both inside and outside the ring.

Amidst the challenges faced by the youth in Majesty Gardens, including violence and limited opportunities, the collaboration between SBC and the Life Skills and Sports Project seeks to create a transformative experience for the community's children. Recognizing the profound impact positive role models can have, the organizers are thrilled to have Mullings on board for an event that goes beyond sports.

The evening promises a blend of basketball excitement and fundamental boxing techniques, providing an interactive platform for children to connect with Sakima in a meaningful way. However, the event is not just about showcasing athletic prowess; it's about sharing life lessons and fostering a sense of hope and determination.

Mullings, known for his resilience and success in the boxing arena, will not only demonstrate his skills in basketball and boxing but will also share personal stories and insights from his journey towards success. His goal is to instill in these young minds the belief that they, too, can overcome challenges and achieve greatness with unwavering dedication.

The Majesty Gardens Life Skills and Sports Project understands the impact that sports can have on character development. Calvin Martin, an organizational representative, expressed his excitement about Sakima's involvement, stating, "Sakima Mullings' presence at this event is a tremendous honor for us. His legacy and dedication to empowering others made him the perfect influencer to inspire our youth. We firmly believe that this event will encourage children from Majesty Garden to believe in themselves, break shackles of adversity, and pursue their dreams with intention."

As Sakima Mullings steps into the community arena, he brings with him not only his athletic prowess but a commitment to being a positive force for change. The event promises to be a beacon of inspiration, reminding Majesty Gardens' youth that they are champions in the making, both inside and outside the ring.