Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya is leveraging his skills to raise $1 million for Chess in Slums Africa (CISA), an initiative he founded in 2018. CISA focuses on educational development and youth empowerment in underserved communities across Africa.
Onakoya recently shattered the world record for the longest chess marathon, playing for more than 60 hours in New York City’s Times Square. This feat not only secured him a Guinness World Record but also boosted fundraising efforts for CISA, which aims to improve educational opportunities for African children.
Tunde Onakoya’s marathon for change
Playing against Shawn Martinez for two and a half days straight, Onakoya’s daring move secured a new record and fueled his non-profit’s $1-million fundraising campaign. CISA, in partnership with the U.S. non-profit “The Gift of Chess,” aims to distribute 1 million chess sets to impoverished communities by 2030, enriching the lives of underprivileged children.
Onakoya announced the achievement on social media, highlighting his dedication to supporting African education. “We have done it,” he wrote. “This is our why — the reason we are doing this… Together, we can make this happen.”
“This initiative will help us distribute one million chess sets by 2030,” Onakoya said, emphasizing his role as a board member of “The Gift of Chess.” The marathon, held in Times Square, surpassed the previous record set by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
CISA’s chess empowerment mission
Founded in 2018, CISA utilizes chess as a tool to empower children in marginalized African communities. The organization’s core mission is to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and strategic planning in young minds, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being.
Onakoya’s record-breaking feat doubles as a million-dollar fundraising campaign. He aims to empower one million underprivileged children within five years by providing free chess instruction, after-school programs, and tournaments.
Onakoya’s unwavering determination serves as an inspiration. He showcases the power of passion and perseverance in driving positive change. Through his efforts, he strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of African children, demonstrating the transformative potential of education and community support.
