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Drake’s Manyawu joins YSS Ambassador team

Cam Manyawu entered the transfer portal in April to move closer to home. Making an impact on the court was always part of the deal. Being a difference-maker for youth and young adults – that’s a bonus.

Manyawu, who transferred to Drake after one season at Wyoming, joined the YSS Ambassador team on Tuesday. The sophomore has been the Bulldogs top rebounder in two games this season. He’s eager to utilize his skills outside of basketball.

“I hope to make a difference in someone’s life,” Manyawu says. “Be a smile or a happy outlook that someone needs.”

Manyawu, who grew up near Kansas City, Mo., chose Drake basketball because he liked the coaching staff and because it was a much shorter drive than the 10-hour drive home from Laramie, Wyo. On Tuesday, while walking through Iowa Homeless Youth Center’s (IHYC) Youth Opportunity Center, he said he decided to work with YSS because he wants to help people back on their feet.

“I always want to see people thrive,” Manyawu says. “Everyone has downs in life and just need a little help sometimes and I enjoy helping people.”

Addressing mental health issues aligns with Manyawu’s core values. “I’ve seen people not address their mental health and it has made problems worse for them. It is very important to make sure that you are taking care of your mental health.”

Manyawu is averaging 11 points and 8.5 rebounds for 2-0 Drake. Last season, he appeared in 31 games with nine starts for Wyoming. He averaged 7.3 points and 6.6 rebounds per game.

“Cam’s dedication to supporting mental health and empowering young people mirrors YSS’s core values, and we’re inspired by his commitment to being a positive influence on and off the court,” says YSS President and CEO Andrew Allen. “As he helps us create hope and opportunity for youth in our community, we’re excited to see the impact he’ll make alongside us.”

The YSS Ambassador program collaborates with the DU Great Collective, which compensates Drake student-athletes with donated funds while helping the athletes use their NIL to benefit the community. YSS creates opportunities for Ambassadors to get involved throughout the year, allowing them to use their influence to bring awareness to the organization’s mission and support local youth and families.

“Working with YSS has been the perfect match for our mission of keeping the Bulldogs thriving by doing great things in the metro and central Iowa,” said Ryan Boatman, a DU Great Collective board member. “YSS does incredible work daily and we’re thrilled to see great Bulldog ambassadors paired with their great impact.”

Follow Cam on Instagram and X.

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