From the Court to the Club: Simba Machekano’s Path to Purpose

For Simba Machekano, the desire to work with youth started early—and it began on the court. A lifelong basketball player, Simba grew up surrounded by the positive influence of coaches and mentors who made him feel seen, capable, and inspired. “Basketball has always been something I love,” he shares. “It gave me great role models, and I want to be that for others.” 

Simba spent part of his childhood in Ohio, where one of his most formative memories took place in a middle school classroom. His teacher invited a few students to stay and watch President Obama’s first speech. “It wasn’t part of the lesson plan, but he wanted us to witness history. He had great energy and cared about us.” That moment, along with the mentorship of several basketball coaches, left a lasting impression. 

After attending high school in Howard County, Simba moved with his family to South Africa and attended Stellenbosch University, earning a degree in theology with a specialization in youth work. As part of the program, he worked with children in under-resourced communities, tutoring, playing games, and organizing sports activities. “Seeing how excited the kids were to spend time with us and visit our campus, it reminded me how my coaches made me feel growing up. That kind of impact is powerful.” 

He also played professional basketball in South Africa but ultimately chose to follow his deeper calling: youth mentorship. He returned to the U.S. and continued coaching and volunteering through churches and youth programs. In late November 2024, he joined Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore and quickly found his passion working with the Club at Howard Community College with late elementary and middle school youth. “They’re smart, they’re curious, and I learn so much from them about how the world is changing. I love figuring out what inspires them and connecting through sports, art, and conversation.” 

One of Simba’s guiding principles is to treat kids with genuine respect. “I talk to them like they’re intelligent people, because they are. I ask questions and listen.” He recalls a young member who was new and anxious when she joined. “She had been quiet but asked if we could watch Matilda the Musical. That led us into a whole conversation about musicals and she opened up about how she loves being in her theatre program. When they feel respected, they open up. That’s how trust is built.” 

Simba credits the structure and programming at BGCMB with drawing him in. “We’re not just about one thing. It’s sports, art, leadership, fun—and it’s all designed to support the kids’ growth.” He also values being surrounded by strong teammates. “Candice and Brooklynne have been amazing. They’re so well-prepared, and they’ve helped me feel confident and continue growing.” 

Through this work, Simba says he's learned about himself. “Patience, balance, structure—it’s not about having control, it’s about knowing how to give freedom with guidance. It’s taught me a lot that I’ll take into fatherhood one day.” 

Looking ahead, Simba is considering pursuing a teaching degree. “This experience has shown me that this is what I want to do. There’s nothing more valuable than investing in kids. You never know if you’ll be that one adult who helps them feel seen, heard, or just smile that day.” 

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