The Hamchetou Maïga-Ba Foundation (HMBF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through basketball, education, and inclusion.

 

Founded by Hamchetou Maïga-Ba — WNBA Champion, Olympian, and Founding Chair of Special Olympics Mali — the Foundation is rooted in the belief that sport can be a powerful catalyst for opportunity when paired with education and life skills.

 

HMBF works to:

 

• Promote access to education

• Develop leadership and life skills

• Support girls’ participation and empowerment

• Foster inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities

• Strengthen communities through sport

 

Through programs, camps, and long-term initiatives such as Lapantha Academy, the Foundation creates structured pathways that help young people thrive both on and off the court.

• 1,200+ Youth Served

• 150+ Coaches Trained

HMBF is committed to responsible, phased growth and works in partnership with local communities, institutions, and mission-aligned organizations to ensure sustainable impact.