The Program

Game Changers is a one-of-a-kind leadership program for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) student-athletes in San Mateo County. You’ll grow as a leader, on and off the court, while giving back to your community.

  • Use your voice and skills to drive meaningful change

  • Build strong relationships and a sense of purpose

  • Access exclusive mentorship, leadership workshops, and basketball events

Rooted in Unitedly’s mission to advance equity and access for Asian communities, Game Changers empowers youth to step into their full potential—as athletes, advocates, and future leaders.

Why Basketball?

AANHPI athletes have long been underrepresented in mainstream sports and held back by stereotypes that overlook both their athletic talent and leadership strengths. Unitedly Game Changers is here to flip this narrative and replaces it with stories of strength and pride.

Through the power of basketball, we’re creating space for AANHPI student-athletes to shine, not just for their skills on the court, but for their leadership, teamwork, and vision off of it. By uplifting AANHPI youth, we’re showing that our communities not only belong in the game—they’re leading it and shaping it for the better.

Our Goals

Unitedly is a San Mateo County-based nonprofit committed to ensuring Asian families and communities have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Rooted in cultural understanding and lived experience, Unitedly builds trust through direct services, outreach, and advocacy that address systemic barriers—especially in language access and community engagement. Our program goals are to:

  • Recruit and support 5 AANHPI student-athletes as Unitedly Game Changers to elevate Unitedly’s mission of equity and inclusion through youth-led visibility and action.

  • Use basketball as a tool to build leadership, civic engagement, and community advocacy skills by creating a youth-centered platform where athletes grow both on and off the court.

  • Engage Game Changers in community events as representatives and role models.

Who Should Apply?

  • Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) youth ages 14–18

  • Live in San Mateo County

  • Passionate about basketball, leadership, and community service

  • Ready to commit to monthly activities (Oct 2025–Apr 2026)

Benefits & Incentives

You’ll gain hands-on leadership experience and develop real-world skills you can carry into college, your career, or your next big game. As a Game Changer, you’ll also receive:

  • A $500 stipend upon completing the program

  • Monthly leadership development workshops

  • Exclusive Game Changers merchandise

  • Recognition on social media and in the community

  • Mentorship and coaching from professional athletes

  • Letters of recommendation

  • A graduation ceremony with recognition from local elected officials

This is more than a program. It’s your chance to grow, lead, and make a difference!

What Will You Do?

  • Attend monthly workshops on leadership, advocacy, and wellness

  • Lead or join a Legacy Project to help your community

  • Represent Unitedly at events and on social media

  • Learn directly from coaches, athletes, and civic leaders

Ready to be a Game Changer?

We believe the next generation of leaders are already here. Game Changers just helps them rise.

  • Applications Open: July 14, 2025

  • Deadline: August 11, 2025

Have questions? Contact us: gamechangers@unitedly.org