March 29 2025
Surviving Struggles Foundation Hosts First Annual Middle School Rising Stars Showcase in Oakland
Oakland, CA – The Surviving Struggles Foundation proudly hosted its First Annual Middle School Rising Stars Showcase this past weekend in Oakland, marking a major milestone in the organization’s mission to uplift and empower youth through sports, mentorship, and community engagement.
The event brought together talented middle school student-athletes from across the Bay Area to display their skills on the court, while also spotlighting character, leadership, and academic commitment. Designed to inspire and recognize the next generation of athletes, the showcase provided a platform for youth to shine both athletically and personally.
“This wasn’t just about basketball,” said Jabari Scott, Founder of Surviving Struggles Foundation. “It was about showing these young people that they matter, that their effort in the classroom and on the court is being watched and celebrated. We want to give them opportunities we didn’t have.”
Parents, educators, mentors, and community leaders were in attendance, creating an atmosphere of celebration and support. In addition to the games, students participated in team-building workshops and listened to motivational speakers who shared their own stories of struggle and success.
With a strong turnout and positive feedback from participants and families, the Foundation plans to make the Rising Stars Showcase an annual tradition. "This is just the beginning," Scott added. "We’re committed to investing in our youth and giving them every reason to believe in their future.”