Guinness World Records holder and founder of “Chess in Slums Africa” Tunde Onakoya has said that he wants to be remembered as the man who used chess to help children find their place in the world, especially those overlooked by society.
Onakoya, who holds the Guinness World Records for the longest marathon chess game, made this declaration while accepting his award at the THISDAY 30th Anniversary Awards Night, held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos on Monday.
“When I was being introduced, they called me the chess guy. Yes, I am indeed the chess guy,” he said. “But what is so much more important that I represent, that I really want to be remembered for, is the guy that is using chess as a way to help children find their place in the world, especially children that have been overlooked by society. This is what truly matters to me.”
Onakoya also took the opportunity to urge the distinguished audience to prioritise inclusivity and representation in their various capacities. “We must never forget to continue to ask ourselves the question: ‘Who is not in this room, and how am I representing them in the best possible way?’” Onakoya stated. “In a way that is truly meaningful to the development of our society.”
Dedicating his award to children from marginalised communities, Onakoya concluded, “I stand here and I’m dedicating this award to all the children out there in places where they probably will never make it to rooms like this.” His heartfelt speech left the audience inspired and affirmed his commitment to changing lives through chess.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on: