Tunde Onakoya: Championing Chess, Empowering Communities

Early Beginnings and Rise in Chess: 

Born on October 6, 1994. Tunde Onakoya’s introduction to chess occurred in a barber’s shop in the slums of Ikorodu, Lagos. There he spent his formative years, despite financial constraints that initially hindered his education. Onakoya’s mother’s determination to support him paved the way for his academic and chess pursuits. His journey from these humble beginnings led him to become the 13th-ranked chess player in Nigeria.

Education and Achievements: 

His academic pursuits parallel Onakoya’s dedication to chess. He earned a diploma in computer science from Yaba College of Technology. There, he distinguished himself as a gold medalist in various chess competitions. Also the Nigeria Polytechnic Games and the RCCG Chess Championship. His accolades include victories in the National Friends of Chess and the Chevron Chess Open.

Recognition and Global Impact:

Onakoya’s achievements garnered international attention. This led to his feature on CNN African Voices and his appointment as a board member of The Gift of Chess, a nonprofit based in New York City. These platforms provided Tunde Onakoya with opportunities to amplify his message of empowerment through chess.

Breaking Records and Making History:

On April 20, 2024, Tunde Onakoya etched his name in history by breaking the world record for the longest chess marathon in Times Square, New York City. Playing for over 60 consecutive hours, he surpassed the previous record and demonstrated unparalleled endurance and skill on the chessboard.

Chess in Slums Africa:

Driven by a desire to give back to his community, Onakoya founded Chess in Slums Africa in 2018. This volunteer-driven nonprofit organization aims to empower children in impoverished communities through chess. Partnering with Chess.com in 2020 expanded the organization’s reach, using chess as an educational tool to foster cognitive development and critical thinking skills among children.

Impact and Success Stories: 

The impact of Chess in Slums in Africa is evident in the success stories it has cultivated. By June 2021, over 200 children had received training through the program, with 20 of them securing lifelong scholarships. Notable achievements include Ferdinand, a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, winning a chess tournament in Makoko and later meeting and competing with the governor of Lagos State.

A Mission Beyond Chess:

Onakoya’s pursuit of breaking the chess marathon record was not solely about personal achievement; it was a mission with a deeper cause. Alongside his record-breaking endeavor, he aimed to raise $1 million for the education of children in Africa, particularly those lacking access to quality education. His mission received widespread support from the Nigerian community in New York, as well as prominent figures like former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Kashim Shettima, with appearances by Afrobeats stars Davido and Adekunle Gold.

Conclusion:

Tunde Onakoya’s journey from learning chess in the slums of Lagos to a world-record-breaking chess marathon champion. Also, the founder of Chess in Slums Africa exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and empowerment. Through his remarkable achievements and philanthropic endeavors. Onakoya continues to inspire individuals around the world, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends the boundaries of the chessboard.