Laeticia Amihere, the Canadian basketball star known for being the first Canadian woman to dunk in a game, aims to make a difference both on and off the court. Despite her on-court achievements, Amihere is focused on her legacy beyond basketball, emphasizing the importance of giving back to her community and creating opportunities for underserved youth through her non-profit, Back to the Motherland. As part of the Canadian women's basketball team, Amihere is currently competing in the Olympic qualifying tournament, where she aims to help the team secure a spot in the Paris 2024 Games. Despite facing personal tragedies and professional challenges, including knee injuries and the loss of family members, Amihere remains committed to her philanthropic work and aims to empower marginalized communities, drawing inspiration from her own experiences growing up in Mississauga, Ontario. Her efforts align with the broader need for increased youth sport access in Canada, with a recent study highlighting the barriers to participation, particularly for girls. Through her dedication to effecting positive change, Amihere exemplifies the broader impact athletes can have beyond their athletic achievements.

By the Numbers
  • Amihere became famous at 15 for being the first Canadian woman to dunk in a game.
  • She is currently averaging seven points and three rebounds on 62.5% shooting in the Olympic qualifying tournament.
State of Play
  • Amihere is currently competing in the Olympic qualifying tournament with the Canadian women's basketball team.
  • Her non-profit, Back to the Motherland, aims to provide opportunities for underserved communities through basketball.
  • There is a growing need for increased youth sport access in Canada, particularly for girls, with social isolation and affordability identified as significant barriers to participation.
Bottom Line

Laeticia Amihere's dedication to effecting positive change both on and off the court exemplifies the broader impact athletes can have beyond their athletic achievements, highlighting the importance of giving back to communities and creating opportunities for underserved youth.