From Sudanese Refugee to NBA Star: Wenyen Gabriel Champions Hope and Change for Displaced Communities
Written By: Jackie Rae
Born in Khartoum, Sudan, Wenyen Gabrie's life began in the midst of struggle and a civil war. It is unlikely he would remember much about the turmoil as his parents fled Sudan and became refugees in Egypt when he was just an infant. Still, Wenyen's early life as a refugee shaped his outlook and fueled his mission to give back to his people and become an advocate for Sudanese refugees.
Wenyen's journey from Sudan to the NBA is a testament to his resilience and determination. Uprooted to Egypt and later finding a new home in Manchester, New Hampshire—a city with a welcoming South Sudanese community—Wenyen's determination began to blossom. This was home. A home that not only helped him hone his basketball skills, but also gave him a sense of connection to his community that nurtured a deep-seated desire to make a difference. His academic and athletic endeavors in high school catapulted him into the NBA, where he played for teams like the Sacramento Kings, the Los Angeles Lakers, and, currently, the Memphis Grizzlies.
At just 27 years-old, Wenyen isn't just known for his presence on the court but also for his vibrant role as a champion for refugees and displaced individuals worldwide. Collaborating with leaders from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Republic of South Sudan Leaders (ROSS), Wenyen leverages his public persona to ignite change and foster hope. Since 2020, he has been instrumental in promoting sports programs that empower and uplift displaced communities, using basketball as a powerful tool for social cohesion and personal development.
Wenyen's passion for this cause took him back to South Sudan in April 2022 for an emotional homecoming after years of absence. During his visit, he engaged with displaced communities and internal displacement camps, confronting the harsh realities they face. "Visiting the IDP camps was very huge to me," Wenyen reflected. "To see one of the biggest crises in Africa firsthand and realize how underfunded it is, is heartbreaking. Bringing attention to these issues is crucial."
South Sudan remains at the heart of Africa's largest refugee crisis. The resilience of its people, particularly the children who make up more than half of the displaced, inspires Wenyen's ongoing advocacy. His role as Brand Ambassador for ROSS Leaders and his collaboration with the SO Elite Basketball Training program are vital components of this endeavor. Through initiatives like the Wenyen Gabriel Basketball Camp in Juba, which engaged over 300 youths, Wenyen extends opportunities for education and leadership, fostering a new generation poised to uplift their communities. This is a beacon of hope, a testament to the transformative power of education and leadership.
Wenyen Gabriel's life and work exemplify a powerful message: adversity can be a catalyst for empowerment and leadership. "We are all children of this land. It's up to us to build it!" he asserts, proud of his roots and committed to his people's future. With basketball as his medium, Wenyen continues to shoot for goals far beyond the hoops—aiming to uplift, unite, and inspire. As he champions for refugees and displaced persons, his story is a beacon of hope, proving that with passion and perseverance, every challenge faced is an opportunity to rise and help others do the same.