A RISING star from Wentworth Raptures, Ziyaad Joseph, is set to board a plane on Friday (July 25) to the US to participate in the Global Exchange Basketball Programme.

The opportunity marks a major milestone in the journey of a young athlete who has sacrificed much in pursuit of his dreams.

He has been part of the leadership development programme for the past three years. While his peers are navigating social circles and school corridors, Ziyaad lives a life of extreme focus.

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His coach Sheldon Francis said, “He doesn’t hang out with anyone in the community. He believes friendships would only distract him from his goal — and that goal is to play professional basketball at the highest level,” said Francis.

Home-schooled and largely isolated by choice, his routine consists of academic work in the morning and intensive basketball training for up to three hours each afternoon.

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Despite his hard work and unwavering focus, Ziyaad’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges.

“Some peers have questioned his selection, suggesting favouritism, despite the fact that the decision was made independently by the programme’s co-ordinators.

“It’s difficult because people assume I had something to do with it. But I didn’t. Ziyaad earned this. He’s been putting in the work quietly, for years, without asking for recognition or shortcuts,” said Francis.

The Global Exchange Programme in the US will not only expose Ziyaad to high-level competition and coaching but also offer cultural and leadership development.

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