BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Michael Simonetta, Founder & Chairman
Drive for Dreams Foundation
Michael became involved in grassroots basketball as a consequence of assisting his son’s teams through his teenage years. Michael realized that he could make an important difference in the lives of many at-risk youth and began dedicating more of his spare time and charitable giving in support of these student athletes. Michael founded The Drive for Dreams Foundation in 2014 as a way to formalize his own charitable giving and to organize his fundraising efforts. Today, Michael primarily focuses on fundraising, sponsorship development, organizational and administrative support for KingNation Basketball- the main beneficiary of the Foundation. He also assists with the placement of young players in appropriate secondary and post-secondary schools, and acts as an advisor focuses on education, career development for players and coaches as well as recruiting.
A successful entrepreneur with an extensive background of management, investment, and capital markets, Michael was also the Co-Founder of two asset management firms and a software company as well as an investor in several other successful businesses. Other achievements in business: Michael is a Chartered Accountant by training and is a former Director of the Toronto Board of Trade and a member of World President’s Organization (WPO).
Vidal Massiah, Board Member
Founder & Executive Director, KingNation Basketball
At KingNation Basketball, Vidal leads all operations for players, coaches and teams, bringing together our athletes and families, and those college-level coaches interested in building new relationships with youth. As one who has experienced the challenge first-hand, Vidal employs all playing and coaching skills and networks to develop students, evolving them into the type of desired player who may appeal to the university coaches at recruitment time. A leader for both student and families, Vidal helps both to reach informed decisions throughout the process, and as a trusted advisor, demonstrates the passion and drive needed for the organization to succeed.