Introduction
Tunde Onakoya was born on October 6, 1994, in Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria. Growing up in a low-income community, Tunde faced the harsh realities of poverty, but he never let those challenges define his future. From a young age, he played life like a chess game, always thinking several moves ahead. His early experiences shaped his fierce determination to rise above his circumstances and rewrite the narrative for himself and others like him.
Tunde’s sharp mind and relentless spirit pushed him beyond his environment, and today, he stands as a powerful symbol of hope for young Africans.
Education and Early Career
Tunde attended public schools in Lagos, where he nurtured both his academic and creative talents. Later, he pursued Computer Science at Yaba College of Technology, but his most valuable lessons came from outside the classroom.
He discovered chess during his secondary school years, instantly falling in love with the game’s strategic brilliance. Without access to expensive training or elite mentors, Tunde taught himself, using books, practice, and sheer willpower. His passion for chess grew into mastery, and soon, he began competing and winning tournaments.
But Tunde always saw chess as more than just a game. He believed it could change lives, especially for children trapped in cycles of poverty. He started teaching chess in public spaces, determined to give young minds a fighting chance at a brighter future.
Major Life Events
Determined to expand his impact, Tunde founded Chess in Slums Africa, an organization that has transformed countless lives in underprivileged communities. Through this initiative, he uses chess as a gateway to education and opportunity, helping children develop critical thinking, literacy skills, and self-belief.
One of the young stars impacted by Tunde’s mentorship is Fawaz Adeoye, a talented chess prodigy from the streets of Oshodi. Tunde did not compete with Fawaz for the Guinness World Record but rather mentored him, changing the course of Fawaz’s life and proving that every child deserves a chance to win.
Tunde’s dedication caught global attention.
In April 2024, he set out to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. The event unfolded in the heart of Times Square, New York City, drawing international headlines. He initially aimed to surpass the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018. Not satisfied with simply breaking it, Tunde boldly extended his marathon to a jaw-dropping 60 hours, demonstrating mental fortitude and unshakable focus.
Beyond breaking records, Tunde continues to carry the torch of hope globally. In march 2025, he and the Chess in Slums Africa team represented Nigeria at the Community Chess Conference in the United States, proudly showcasing how chess transforms lives and they won various cash prizes alongside awards.
Professional Achievements
Tunde’s professional journey blazes with milestones. His work has attracted international recognition, and he has become one of Africa’s most inspiring youth voices. Major media outlets, global leaders, and educational platforms have celebrated his achievements.
Through Chess in Slums, he has raised funding, created opportunities, and built platforms for hundreds of children across Nigeria and beyond.
What sets Tunde apart is not just his mastery of the game, but how he relentlessly commits to empowering children. He pours his heart into helping them see their potential, arming them with life strategies that reach far beyond the chessboard.
Personal Life
While Tunde keeps his personal life relatively private, one thing shines clearly: his deep love for children and community-building. He devotes his time, energy, and resources to ensuring that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds gain access to education and opportunities that once felt out of reach.
Every move he makes, both on and off the board, reflects his passion for lifting others as he climbs.
Legacy and Impact
Tunde Onakoya has built a legacy rooted in impact and resilience. He has proven that chess teaches children how to outthink challenges, unlock possibilities, and claim their place in the world.
His story proves that greatness can rise from the most unlikely places. With every child he mentors, every community he touches, and every record he shatters, Tunde strengthens a movement far bigger than himself.
He has redefined what it means to be a changemaker in Africa, inspiring generations to play their own winning game, no matter the odds.
Conclusion
Tunde Onakoya’s journey is a story of audacity, purpose, and unstoppable belief. He rises each day not just to win games but to change lives. He proves that the board of life belongs to those bold enough to make the first move. Through his unwavering commitment to empowering children and reshaping communities, Tunde leaves behind a legacy of courage and transformation, one that will inspire many more to dream bigger, think smarter, and move fearlessly.
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