May 9, 2008

PHOTOS

RICHMOND, Va. - Two days before graduating from the University of Richmond, senior men's basketball player Oumar Sylla talked to third graders at Lakeside Elementary School about his native country of Mali.

The third graders at Lakeside Elementary are studying Mali for their SOL testing and Sylla was the perfect guest speaker, having spent the first 15 years of his life in the West African nation.

Sylla came to the United States at the age of 15 knowing just one word of English. He will graduate with a degree from the University of Richmond on Sunday, something that drew an ovation from the third graders.

He talked about life growing up in Mali, including the country's history and traditions. Wearing a traditional robe, he did some singing and led the students in a native dance.

Sylla captivated the audience of about 60 for over and hour, answering questions and telling the students the importance of education and listening to their parents and teachers. He told the students to be grateful for the opportunities they have growing up in the United States.

"We had nothing growing up in Mali," Sylla said. "We didn't even have text books."