A young basketball star from Uganda who came to Canada to pursue his dreams both on and off the court has died.
Michael Makumbi, 22, attended the University of Manitoba as an international student. He was also part of the Legacy Preparatory Basketball Academy and Segue, a faith-based student club at the UM.
The young athlete died suddenly during the Easter weekend, which friends and family are attributing to a blood clot.
Friends and classmates who knew him are now asking for prayers for his family. They have also set up a GoFundMe to help bring Michael home to Uganda.
"Home, where his story began. Home, where his family, who raised him, loved him, and sent him here with hope, is waiting to lay him to rest," said Hayley Nanyange through the GoFundMe.
Nanyange says his life was full of promise, love and light.
"Michael was so much more than a student or a teammate. He was joy. He was laughter. He was the kind of friend who made you feel like family," said Nanyange. "With a heart that never ran out of room for others, and a smile that could lift you out of the darkest moments, he changed lives in ways he never fully realized."
The hope is to raise $40,000 to help get Michael home.
All funds raised will go towards the flights, funeral arrangements in Canada and Uganda and support for his grieving family.
"We are asking for your help — not just to raise money, but to surround Michael with the same love and support he gave so freely."