Diego, one of SBIC's co-founders, was inspired to create the organization by personal experiences of feeling out of place during his first year at Michigan. His leadership in SBIC allowed him to channel his passion for promoting inclusivity in sports, opening doors to significant professional opportunities. The organization provided Diego with a platform to connect with industry professionals and showcase his dedication to making sports a more inclusive space. Today, Diego is a Partnership Strategy & Insights Specialist for the Chicago Bulls, a role he credits SBIC for helping him prepare by giving him invaluable leadership experience and industry connections.

After attending a guest speaker event in late 2020, Alana was inspired to join a student organization for underrepresented students in Sport Management. With the support of an alumni mentor, she connected with Daniel and Diego, and together, they launched SBIC during the pandemic. The organization’s growth has been remarkable, and it’s only the beginning. SBIC provided Alana with leadership experience and a strong sense of community that shaped her college journey. She’s grateful for the impact it had on her personal and professional development, helping her prepare for a future in the sports industry.

Daniel joined several student organizations during his freshman year but couldn’t find a space that connected historically underrepresented individuals in sports and entertainment. So, at the start of his sophomore year, he decided to create that community with a couple of friends. This endeavor gave him a strong sense of purpose and passion, which he channeled into telling stories in class, coffee chats, and interviews. As a founder, building SBIC taught Daniel what it takes to turn an idea into reality. He’s inspired by how the new leadership continues to raise the bar, pushing the sports industry forward.