Our Motivational Speaker

TRAYVON BUFFMAN

For all the basketball fanatics out there, let me start by saying I have a true passion and appetite for the game. I’m from Chicago, IL, and basketball was my childhood obsession. From a young age, I worked tirelessly on my skills, aiming for one goal: to play in the NBA. Basketball was more than just a game to me—it was like the air I breathed. But despite my love for the game, I found myself distracted by something else: the streets.

As much as I dreamed of making it to the NBA, the allure of the streets grabbed hold of me. At the time, I felt like I could juggle both—managing the court and the hood. But eventually, the streets started to demand more of my attention, and the dream of basketball took a backseat. When I came to Minnesota, it seemed like the balance started to shift back toward the game I loved. But here's the truth: the streets have a way of making you believe that you can maintain your normal life while dabbling in the chaos. There are no success stories of half-hearted crooks who manage to live both lives.

I was supposed to go to college in Texas, but life had other plans for me. When I found out I was going to be a dad, everything changed. I knew I had to figure out my path and take control of my life immediately. But despite my best intentions, I found myself slipping back into old habits, looking to the streets for direction.

Then, my prayers were answered. Time To Evolve Coalition (T-TEC) surfaced, and Mr. Duncan reached out to me. He made a pitch—he wanted me to fix my life and join his mission. I gave it great consideration because it was Coach asking. I know his integrity is solid, and I understand his genuine desire to help people.

That was the turning point for me. Joining T-TEC has been more than just a mission; it’s a lifeline. I’ve learned the true meaning of responsibility, leadership, and community. My journey has come full circle, and now I’m committed to helping others find their way, just as I found mine.