Doernbecher Freestyle Program

For 2022 Doernbecher Freestyle designer Ayman Wamala, anything is possible.

Ayman was born in Kenya and was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at an early age. When his family moved to Portland four years ago, Ayman began treatment at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. “When it was really bad, it felt like I was getting hit with a sledgehammer all over my body,” he explained, “The doctors there gave me medicine, and I’ve definitely gotten better and stronger.” It’s no wonder that the young man now feels like a superhero, to which he closely aligns his design to.

Powered by Ayman’s alter-ego: a mysterious, mind-reading character you’ll find on just one set of the removable tongue tags, the pair is flushed with superhero themes. From Black Panther-like triangular shapes representing protective armor, and subtle tiger stripes that glow bright blue in UV light. Iridescent Swooshes sit at the midfoot, while comic-like branding in the rear continues the overarching theme. On a more personal note, red blood cells on the outsole represent Ayman’s condition, while the words Hope, Strength, and Perseverance around his logo help guide you on your daily travels. The phrase Life is uncertain…make fast decisions in tough situations runs along the midsole, as Ayamn explains “I think that phrase relates to a lot of people’s lives,” Ayman said. “Whether it’s COVID-19 or some other unexpected challenge, you have to be able to adjust to it, then rise above it.”