our herstory

Founded in 2012, LBC was a response to an increasing need for free and accessible sports and recreational programming for girls in underserved, predominantly racialized neighbourhoods. As an up-and-coming young professional basketballer, founder Toyo Ajibolade had first-hand knowledge of the many barriers girls like her face when trying to get into the male-dominated sport. Even as Toyo moved up the ranks, the cost of elite-level basketball soon became too prohibitive, even for her middle-class family. She saw a real need for a cost-free and safe space where girls could get on the court without facing sexism and racism and instead be uplifted and motivated by inspiring role models. Wanting to be that role model, Toyo rallied with the community to create LBC. 12 years later, LBC has garnered a strong reputation within the Greater Toronto Area, positively impacting young lives through various enriching programs and supports beyond the basketball-based March break and summer camps we started with.