Sneaker Fest’s Indelible Impact on Sports and Youths

By Johnny Edward

It is widely acknowledged that sports have become a viable tool for individuals to achieve personal success and development, in addition to offering numerous health benefits.

Additionally, it’s a great driver of motivation and self-development. Recognizing this, Ikemesit Nkereuwem – Tim BadBlood28 and his team saw the need to create a platform to encourage and promote sports in Nigeria. Sneaker Fest which has served as a significant institute for encouraging people to participate in various sporting activities and has provided an environment where sport can thrive through the series of activities incorporated into the annual event, has continued to be a site that athletes, youths, and lovers of sports look forward to every year.

With a deep understanding of the struggles faced by professional athletes in Nigeria, Ikemsit established Sneakerfest as a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to empowering, motivating, celebrating, and providing opportunities for people in sports. Additionally, to set an example for future generations towards a sustainable and conscious future.

The relationship between sports and footwear cannot be overemphasized, as many great athletes renowned for their remarkable success attribute these successes to the gear they wear during their sporting activities. These gears in most cases provide better performance, as seen in sports like basketball, skating, biking, tennis, and many more. Where footwear is engineered to meet specific requirements to help sportsmen and women perform at their best. It is clear why Ikemesit saw the need to use Sneaker Fest as a platform to encourage, empower, and celebrate not only sneaker enthusiasts but also athletes, who often share a similar interest in footwear.

The Sneaker Fest event, which has consistently been exceptional year after year, has incorporated various categories in its festival that showcase raw talent and sportsmanship in Nigeria. Through its yearly slam dunk contest, which allows attendees to show off breathtaking dunks with a chance to win a cash prize, and the general inclusivity that gave rise to the inclusion of the all-women’s 3-point shootout basketball contest which was first introduced at Sneaker Fest 2023.

The category which encouraged women in sports to showcase their skills and hit 3-point shots from behind the arc, was exceptional and the winner was rewarded with 300,000 Naira worth of cash prize.

In addition to self-funding these initiatives, Ikemesit and his team have actively sought partnerships with the government to bridge the gap between the Nigerian people and the government.

Their goal is to create a better understanding of young Nigerians, their needs, and what can fuel their ambitions. This effort has gradually proven successful, as evidenced by the presence of the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende at Sneakerfest2023. Such an ambiance creates potential opportunities for future collaborations that could involve the government and create a grand stage to harness the diverse sporting talents in the country. This would ensure better visibility for the event, attract media and sports scouts, and provide players with valuable exposure.

As Sneakerfest continues to evolve, the impact of Ikemesit and his team on Nigerian basketball is set to grow, inspiring a new generation of athletes and enthusiasts.