ATLANTA, Georgia — Children from ‘Chess in Slums’, a non-governmental organization led by master Tunde Onakoya, made waves at the 12th Annual Chess & Community Conference held yesterday in the United States. With a mission to uplift underprivileged kids through chess, these young stars proved their mettle by winning multiple awards.
Among the highlights of the event, young Ferdinand emerged as the winner of the prestigious Young Genius Award, which he received from American actor Khary Payton, best known for his role on ‘The Walking Dead’. Jamiu, another standout, claimed the title of best player in the chess tournament, securing a gold medal and a $500 scholarship for his touching essay on global citizenship.
Meanwhile, Ivie clinched a silver medal along with $100 in the middle school championship. Impressively, the entire Chess in Slums team finished the tournament without losing a single game, further showcasing their dedication and skill.
Themed “Future Forward: Game Changers,” the conference merged chess with technology to inspire young leaders. It featured various events, including tournaments with prizes up to $1,000, virtual reality innovations, and robotics competitions. A highlight was the Kids vs Police Chess Challenge, emphasizing chess as a tool for positive change.
Upon their arrival in the US for the Chess and Community Ubuntu Cultural Exchange, Tunde Onakoya reflected on their journey. “Typing these words fills my eyes with tears all over again because I know their stories,” he shared. “These kids have battled their circumstances to reach a platform where they can shine.”
Ferdinand, who lives with cerebral palsy, has been bullied and is the son of a poor fisherman living in one of the world’s largest floating slums. On the chessboard, he finds his strength. Mary has faced the harrowing effects of Boko Haram, being left in a displacement camp in Northern Nigeria, yet her dreams continue to bloom. Mabel, who was once left without educational opportunities, has transformed into a determined chess queen with aspirations of becoming a doctor. Jamiu has endured heartbreak, witnessing his mother’s death and living on the streets, but remains undefeated in chess and is a top contender in his age group.
These champions embody resilience and hope for countless other children facing adversity. They represent not just their personal stories but also the voices of many who have been told they could not achieve their dreams. “Today, we represent every child told they were impossible,” Jamiu declared proudly.
As the team prepares for competitions in Athens, New York City, and Harvard, their journey continues to inspire not just their communities but chess enthusiasts worldwide. In the face of global challenges, these kids stand tall, proving that with the right support and mindset, greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places.
