Tunde Onakoya, a formidable Nigerian chess master, coach, and the visionary founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has dedicated his life to making a profound impact in the lives of underprivileged children across the bustling city of Lagos. His remarkable journey from the slums of Ikorodu to becoming a catalyst for change through the game of chess is a testament to his unwavering determination and compassionate spirit.

Growing up in Ikorodu, Lagos, Onakoya discovered the game of chess in an unlikely setting – a humble barber’s shop. This serendipitous encounter sparked a passion that would shape his future and the lives of countless children. Despite facing financial obstacles that threatened to derail his education, Onakoya’s mother selflessly worked as a cleaner at a school to ensure that he could pursue his studies. This selfless act of maternal love laid the foundation for Onakoya’s future endeavors, as he went on to achieve the remarkable feat of being ranked as the 13th best chess player in Nigeria.

Onakoya’s academic pursuits led him to excel in the field of computer science at Yaba College of Technology, where he proudly clinched a gold medal representing the institution in the Nigeria Polytechnic Games. His prowess in chess extended beyond local competitions, earning him victories in prestigious events such as the National Friends of Chess and the Chevron Chess Open, solidifying his status as a luminary in the Nigerian chess community.

The impact of Tunde Onakoya’s work transcends the boundaries of Nigeria, as he caught the attention of global media powerhouse CNN, who featured his remarkable story on African Voices. His involvement as a board member of The Gift of Chess, a New York City-based non-profit organization, further underscores his commitment to leveraging the power of chess as a force for positive change.

In September 2018, Onakoya’s noble vision materialized in the form of Chess in Slums Africa, a volunteer-driven non-profit entity with a singular mission to empower disadvantaged youth through the strategic and intellectual game of chess. The organization’s collaboration with Chess.com in September 2020 ushered in a new chapter, as chess was embraced as an educational tool, enriching the lives of children in classrooms and chess clubs, as well as resonating with parents deeply invested in their children’s holistic development.

As of June 2021, Chess in Slums Africa has touched the lives of over 200 children, with 20 of them securing lifelong scholarships, a testament to the enduring impact of Onakoya’s vision. One poignant example of their impact is Ferdinand, a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, whose triumphant victory in a chess tournament in Makoko serves as a heartwarming reminder of the transformative power of Onakoya’s work. Ferdinand’s subsequent meeting and friendly competition with Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, symbolize the far-reaching ripples of hope and empowerment generated by Tunde Onakoya and Chess in Slums Africa.

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