Young soccer star loves to help others succeed

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This article was published 19/07/2021 (1872 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Jorden Kananga is one of those special human beings whose good deeds are far- reaching and life-changing.

Jorden is a 17-year-old Sisler High School student, heading into Grade 12 this fall, who believes strongly in working hard to make your life better and in working hard to make other lives around you better.

“School is going well. I work hard at it. My favourite class is gym, but I also really like math,” he said.

“I think math is amazing in how problems are solved. I like numbers.”

Jorden’s family came to Canada from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2016. It was in Africa that Jorden’s dad introduced him to the sport that would become his one true love.

“I started playing soccer when I was three years old. My dad was a former professional player. He showed me the game when I was young,” he recalled.

“One of my most favourite memories of playing was after I came to Canada. I was playing for St. Charles Force. Everyone there treated me so kindly. I remember when I scored my first goal for the team all of my teammates were jumping on me. The experience I had with that team showed me that soccer in Winnipeg is much more than just a game, it can also be a way to build a community.”

Jorden lives in the Shaughnessy area with his parents, Sofia and Leon, his brother and his three sisters. He is profoundly thankful to his mom and dad.

“My parents are amazing. They taught me that anything is possible. They have showed me that hard work is everything. They have taught me that I can do anything if I am willing to work hard.”

Jorden likes to use the game he loves to help kids who live in his community.

He is often on the pitch helping other players hone their craft, preaching his values of working hard and being dedicated. I have witnessed his work ethic and it is inspiring.

While Jorden is without a club this season, largely owing to the disruption of the pandemic, he has sent highlight videos to clubs all over the world.

“My dream is to find a club that will allow me an opportunity to play pro. I have been working for the opportunity all my life.”

Jorden has this advice for young athletes:

“Anything is possible. Keep working hard. There are players out there, your opponents, who are out there working hard,” he said.

“Dedicate yourself to working harder than them. Never stop. You can accomplish your dreams.”