Ismaila Cisse started StreetSquash in the summer of 2011 at the age of 10. He went in with a bit of nerves and skepticism but quickly felt a sense of calm as he entered the building.
“I was nervous because I didn’t think I was going to know anyone,” Ismaila said. “But when I got there, a couple of my friends were also in the program. It was a nice welcome.”
It was his dad’s idea to get him involved in the hopes that it would improve Ismaila’s grades. Fortunately, those hopes came to fruition.
“I had a tutor that helped me a lot,” Ismaila said. “I am grateful for him.”
He says trips outside the building were the most memorable for him. He took trips for both squash and academics. In his senior year in high school, he stayed in a cabin with other StreetSquashers which he said helped build more camaraderie.
“There was barely any service so you had to talk and get to know everyone better,” Ismaila said. “This included people that I didn’t talk to on a regular basis. It was a great experience overall.”
Since graduating high school in 2018, Ismaila has been attending the New York City College of Technology, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. His goal is to one day work with his hands, potentially as a plumber or working with HVAC systems.
He also spends time giving back to other kids in New York City. He works with the Police Athletic League as a Group Leader. He works with students in kindergarten through 5th grade.
Ismaila says StreetSquash gave him the tools he needed to propel himself forward in life.
“StreetSquash helped me be more of a communicator,” Ismaila said. “I’m mostly a quiet person and StreetSquash helped me speak up more to be able to get the things I want or need.”
