Tennis has the power to transform lives, and few stories illustrate this better than that of Vyshnave Sivasankar. Her journey, which began amidst the turmoil of war-torn Sri Lanka, led her to Canada, where she found a community, a passion, and ultimately, her purpose—all through tennis.
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A New Beginning in Canada
Thirty years ago, Vyshnave’s parents fled the devastation of civil war in Sri Lanka, seeking refuge in Canada. With courage and determination, they left behind uncertainty to build a new life. Little did they know that their decision would open doors to hope and fulfillment for their daughter.
Born in Toronto’s underserved Jane-Finch neighborhood, Vyshnave grew up in a community often associated with challenges. But this community also became her haven, offering her a sense of belonging and the opportunity to thrive. Among the many activities she explored, one sport captured her heart: tennis.
A Sport That Built a Community
Vyshnave’s introduction to tennis came through the Jane-Finch Community Tennis Association (JFCTA), a Tennis Canada initiative aimed at bringing the sport to underprivileged areas. It was here that she not only discovered tennis but also the power of mentorship and community support.
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“I didn’t just learn tennis; I found a family,” Vyshnave recalls. “The coaches and leaders made me feel welcome in a way I had never experienced before. It wasn’t just a program—it was a home.”
From being a participant, Vyshnave transitioned into roles of greater responsibility. She became a volunteer, an assistant coach, and eventually, the Program Coordinator at JFCTA, overseeing initiatives for women and girls.
Pursuing Passion and Purpose
While her love for tennis grew, so did her thirst for knowledge. Vyshnave earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto, majoring in Human Biology, Health, and Environment. Yet, as she delved deeper into academics, she realized her true calling lay not in science but in the work she was doing with JFCTA.
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“This was a turning point,” she shares. “I realized I wanted to focus on community development and giving back through non-profit organizations. Tennis and JFCTA were the reasons I found my path.”
Vyshnave’s journey didn’t stop there. She pursued a Master’s in Adult Education and Community Development, aiming to deepen her impact. Her work with JFCTA inspired her to collaborate with other non-profits, including a groundbreaking internship with MLSE Foundation’s “Change the Game” initiative.
Creating Change for Women and Girls
One of Vyshnave’s proudest accomplishments is her involvement in programs that empower women and girls through tennis. By attending events like the UNMATCHED Gender Equity in Sports Conference, she’s drawn inspiration from legends like Venus Williams, using those experiences to shape her leadership style.
“It’s hard to describe how inspiring it was to meet Venus Williams,” Vyshnave says. “It made me realize I could be someone who inspires others in my community.”
A Legacy of Impact
Today, Vyshnave is a leader, mentor, and advocate for inclusion in sports. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of tennis—not just as a game but as a tool for building communities, fostering education, and empowering the next generation.
With your support, programs like JFCTA can continue to change lives, breaking barriers for women and girls and ensuring that victories like Vyshnave’s are celebrated across the world.
