Najib Chajiddine
SDGs:
IOC YOUNG LEADER BIO:
Najib Chajiddine is a FIBA 3x3 International Referee and FIBA Referee Instructor. At the French national level, he has officiated in the first division for both women’s and men’s basketball and works with the French Basketball Federation as Manager of the Club Support Department. He also had the honour of refereeing at the Olympic Games Paris 2024, including the 3x3 basketball bronze medal game.
As the founder and President of United Africa (formerly United Maroc), Najib uses basketball as a tool for human development, social inclusion and skills training. Since 2019, he has spearheaded impactful initiatives such as Africa’s first 3x3 basketball academy and the Play In Green Moroccan Tour, which combines sport and environmental awareness. In June 2022, Najib relocated to Morocco to lead and expand his project on the ground.
PROJECT: United Africa
United Africa harnesses the power of basketball to promote inclusion, skill-building and employability across Morocco and Africa. By establishing the continent’s first 3x3 academy and referee school, the project makes structured sports practice more accessible, diverse and inclusive.
Through coaching sessions, leadership workshops, tournaments and referee training, United Africa fosters gender equality, social cohesion and pathways for youth development. Its innovative initiatives – such as Play In Green, blending sport with sustainability, and Whistle for Change, enhancing life skills through referee training – have gained wide recognition, including the IMPACT 2024 label. With activities spanning Morocco, Senegal, Gabon and Rwanda, United Africa continues to transform sport into a sustainable force for development.
ONLINE:
Sustained Financing
In recognition of the impact of his project, Najib was granted sustained financing, extending his time as an IOC Young Leader until the end of 2025. This additional funding supports the scaling and long-term sustainability of United Africa, building on the progress made during his initial term.