How NFL star Camryn Bynum is embracing his Filipino roots
Minnesota Vikings safety Camryn Bynum (24) smiles during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, in Chicago. The Vikings won in overtime 30-27. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
As one of the few Filipino Americans in the National Football League, the 25-year-old Minnesota Vikings safety Camryn Bynum has made it his mission to honor his heritage both on and off the field.
Born and raised in Southern California to a third-generation Filipino American mother, Jennifer, Bynum’s pride in his roots shines through in his actions.
Off the field, Bynum is making a tangible difference through his nonprofit organization, the Bynum Faith Foundation.
Photo from bynumfaithfoundation/Instagram
Established with the mission of supporting underserved communities in both the US and the Philippines, the foundation has taken on numerous initiatives, including food distribution, disaster relief and youth empowerment through sports.
This past July, the foundation extended its kindness to an orphanage in Baybay, Leyte in the Philippines, providing aid to children in need.
The Fil-Am athlete also held a camp in Manila and Cebu city over the years.
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Closer to home, Bynum partnered with Open Cupboard MN for their Thanksgiving Harvest Market Restocking, spending his day off helping stock shelves with fresh food for struggling families.
Bynum’s efforts in the Philippines have also included rebuilding homes, distributing educational supplies and organizing American football camps to inspire the youth.
On his Instagram highlights, he shares glimpses of these meaningful outreaches, mostly in the Philippines, showing a commitment to uplifting others that matches his determination on the field.
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The Fil-Am athlete sums up his vision: “Love like Jesus, be a light to others and impact people’s lives.”
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Bynum quickly became a key player for the Vikings, earning a full-time starting role midway through his rookie year.
His impact extends beyond the gridiron. In 2022, after a game against the New York Jets, Bynum made headlines by proudly draping the Philippine flag over his shoulders.
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