My name is Deng Kuer Deng. I am 24 years old, originally from Pongborong in Twic East, Jonglei State, South Sudan.
I was born and raised by hardworking parents who faced many struggles in a place where life was not easy. Growing up in such an environment taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. Despite the hardships, my parents did their best to raise me with strong values.
In 2014, due to challenges in my home country, I moved to Kakuma Refugee Camp. Life there was not easy, but it became a place where I continued to build my future.
I began my primary education at Shambe Refugee School, where I developed a strong foundation in learning despite limited resources. Later, I joined St. Paul Sinoko Boyz High School on a basketball scholarship, which became a turning point in my life.
My journey into basketball began while I was living in Kakuma. I used to go to the court just to watch others train and play. At first, I was only observing, but the passion, teamwork, and discipline I saw inspired me deeply.
That inspiration pushed me to join and start playing during my high school years. Basketball became more than just a sport—it became part of my identity and a source of hope.
I did not choose this path from the beginning; it developed naturally from my environment and experiences. Watching others play made me believe that I could also do something meaningful with my time and energy. It gave me direction and helped me stay focused, even in a difficult environment.
Like many others, my journey has been full of challenges. Adapting to life in a refugee camp while continuing my education was one of the biggest obstacles I faced. Opportunities were limited, and at times the future felt uncertain.
However, I learned to stay focused and make the most of every opportunity to improve myself.
There were moments when I felt like giving up, especially when life became overwhelming. What kept me going was my determination to create a better future for myself and my family. I held onto hope and reminded myself why I started.
Discipline, hard work, and consistency have played a major role in my growth. Whether in school or on the basketball court, I learned that success comes from showing up every day and putting in the effort.
Even when progress was slow, I remained committed.
I have also faced failures and setbacks along the way. There were times when I did not succeed as I had hoped, but those moments taught me valuable lessons. I learned patience, resilience, and the importance of not giving up.
Failure helped me grow stronger and more determined.
The people who have influenced me the most are my parents and my community. Despite their struggles, my parents always supported and believed in me. In Kakuma, I also found encouragement from friends, teammates, and mentors who motivated me to keep going.
To young people trying to build their future, I would say this:
Never let your situation limit your dreams. Stay focused, work hard, and be patient. Challenges will come, but they are part of the journey. Find something that inspires you and use it to keep moving forward. Believe in yourself, even when it is difficult.
My journey is still ongoing, but I am proud of how far I have come. I continue to move forward with hope, strength, and determination.
Contact Information
Email: Dikueer@gmail.com
Facebook: Dkueer