Founded by Chess Master Tunde Onakoya, Chess in Slums Africa aims to harness the transformative power of chess to overcome the challenges posed by poverty.
Onakoya, who himself experienced life in a Lagos slum, understands firsthand the potential of chess to bring about positive change.
Rising to become the 13th-ranked chess player in Nigeria despite facing adversity, Onakoya envisioned chess not merely as a game but as a tool for empowerment. In 2018, he established Chess in Slums Africa with a mission to leverage chess as a catalyst for education, mentorship, and opportunity in underprivileged communities.
The organization conducts two-week intensive chess camps in slums such as Majidun, Makoko, and Oshodi. These camps not only introduce children to the intricacies of chess but also impart valuable life skills.
Participants learn critical thinking, problem-solving, strategic planning, discipline, and focus – skills that extend beyond the chessboard, empowering them to navigate the complexities of their circumstances and envision brighter futures.
Chess in Slums Africa’s impact extends beyond the classroom, with a 3-year grant deal with Lufthansa Airlines Global The deal, according to Onakoya, will facilitate the development of a chess academy and STEM innovation lab in Lagos, Nigeria, that will be open and free to street children without access to education.
Chess in Slums Africa has also strategically partnered with chess.com, the world’s leading online chess platform to gain access to educational resources, online tournaments, and a global network of chess enthusiasts.
Through strategic partnerships, innovative initiatives, and a commitment to empowerment, Chess in Slums Africa continues to pave the way for a brighter future for children in underprivileged communities.
