From the Slums to the Stars: The Story of Tunde Onakoya

Tunde Onakoya was born and raised in the streets of Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria. Growing up in a humble background, life was far from easy. His parents struggled to make ends meet, and at one point, he was unable to attend school for two years due to financial constraints.

Despite the challenges, Tunde was a brilliant and curious child. He attended Olowoira Primary School and later Majidun Senior Grammar School, both local public schools. It was during these formative years that he discovered the game of chess through a friend. What began as a pastime quickly became a passion Tunde saw more than just pieces on a board; he saw strategy, opportunity, and hope.

With limited resources but boundless determination, he taught himself to play and master chess. He would spend hours in local barbershops studying chess moves from old magazines. His dedication paid off when he began gaining recognition in local tournaments. Eventually, he earned a scholarship to study Computer Science at Yaba College of Technology, where he represented the school in national chess competitions, winning multiple titles.

But for Tunde, it wasn’t just about winning trophies. He saw himself in the children of the slums

smart, talented, and full of potential, yet held back by poverty.

In 2018, Tunde founded Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching chess to children in some of Nigeria’s poorest communities, including Oshodi, Makoko, and Majidun. What began as a small project soon blossomed into a life-changing movement.

Through the game of chess, Tunde helps children think critically, dream big, and discover a new sense of purpose.

Chess Competitions and Educational Impact

1.      Chess Tournaments in Slums

Tunde organizes regular chess tournaments in underserved communities. These events are more than just games they come with prizes, scholarships, and educational opportunities.

2.       chess in slum Bootcamp  

His foundation runs intensive bootcamps where children learn chess alongside literacy, numeracy, and computer skills. The most promising participants are connected with sponsors or enrolled in formal education.

3.      Scholarships and Global Exposure

Many children trained under the Chess in Slums program have gone on to win national and

international chess tournaments, earning scholarships and educational support to further their dreams.

Charity and Social Impact

1.      Food, Clothing, and Medical Support

Beyond education, the organization also provides essential items such as food, clothing, and healthcare especially during bootcamps and festive seasons.

2.      Rehabilitating Street Children

Tunde has helped many children who were previously involved in street hustling, begging, or had dropped out of school. Through chess and mentorship, these children are reintegrated into society and given a second chance.

3.      Support for Orphans and Disabled Children

His outreach also includes orphanages and homes for children with disabilities, ensuring that no child is left behind regardless of their background or challenges.

In April 2024, Tunde made international headlines by setting a world record for the longest chess marathon 58 hours played in Times Square, New York. But even in that moment of glory, his message was clear: this wasn’t just about breaking records it was about breaking the cycle of poverty.

The chess marathon served as a fundraising campaign to support children in African slums. The funds raised are now being used to build better training centers and provide long-term support for children in underserved communities.

From mentoring street kids to inspiring millions, Tunde Onakoya has become more than a chess master. he is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of giving back. Through his unique blend of competition, education, and charity, he is using chess to change lives, restore dreams, and build brighter futures.