This week’s episode focuses on the incredible story of Kojo Mensah, a former professional basketball player who turned a personal tragedy into his inspiration to help revitalize an entire community.
Born in Ghana and raised in the United States, Kojo's promising basketball career was tragically cut short by gun violence at his college campus, an event that not only left him and his teammates physically wounded but also subjected them to baseless blame and stigma—an experience all too common in Black communities across the US. In spite of this trauma, Kojo channeled his experiences into a force for positive change, founding the Kosah Foundation to support his home community of Canarsie, Brooklyn. Through the Kosah Foundation, Kojo works to foster a love for basketball among the Canarsie youth and provide them with opportunities for growth and development. His work goes beyond sports; it's about nurturing a sense of belonging, purpose, and hope in a community often overlooked.
In this inspirational conversation, Kojo shares his insights on the importance of shifting out of limiting perspectives, the power of community healing, and the importance of acknowledging and supporting Black victims in the aftermath of violence.
Creating a New Legacy
Surviving the Insurmountable: Recovering From Domestic Violence
Advocacy in Action
The Aswad Interview
Healing and Safety After Domestic Violence
Centering the Voices of Survivors
A New Movement of Survivor Leaders
Breaking the Cycle with Our Stories
Service and Support for Crime Survivors
Victim Compensation and Real Healing
Domestic Violence and the Lifeline to Justice
Healing through Action & Organizing
Trauma Recovery Centers
Introducing Crime Survivors Speak
The Founding of Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice