Curious about how a young, future basketball star juggles dreams with discipline? Meet Yonatan Moges, an aspiring athlete and engineer whose love for the game, devotion to Jesus Christ, and admiration for J. Cole shape his path.

Yonatan, a Paint Branch sophomore, balances his ambitions with rigorous discipline. Yonatan dreams of becoming a professional basketball player, and says that Kyrie Irving and the music of J. Cole inspire his game. If basketball doesn’t work out for the young star, he aims to focus on his alternative passion–engineering, showing his determination and versatility. 

His Christian faith plays a pivotal role in his life. Deeply rooted in Christianity, Yonatan mentions Jesus Christ as the most significant influence in his life, a trait he inherited from his parents that guides his decisions and shapes his character. Yonatan mentions that his faith “helps me focus on my goals.” This religious foundation gives him the strength and rigor to pursue his goals.

His East African heritage has greatly influenced his perspective. Emphasizing discipline and self-respect, this background instills a strong sense of identity and purpose in his life.  He reflects on how his cultural roots have reinforced his values and outlook on life. “My parents have shown me discipline and how to push forward in life.”

Reflecting on past decisions, Yonatan expresses a desire for a fresh start to correct his mistakes and listen to his parents more. Yonatan comments “Everything. there’s a lot of things I regret, and if I did  have the opportunity, I’d listen to my parents more.” This sincere recognition shows his growth and readiness to explore new opportunities with a refined perspective.

Besides his honorable goals and values, he has personal preferences. He dislikes the color green, describing it as unattractive and saying, “Anything green is usually nasty”. Yonatan also has a love for cheesesteaks, typically going for the kimchi cheese steak from Charley’s Cheesesteaks, which is his favorite fast-food restaurant. These details offer a glimpse into his personality besides his goals and ambitions.

At the center of Yonatan’s life is a profound respect and love for important moral values, his faith, and family. Yonatan proudly says, “My family and my friends also help me achieve my goals and keep me happy.” This relationship builds him up mentally and provides the support and motivation necessary to navigate the path of challenges of pursuing his dreams and aspirations.

By: Jonathan Imonidi