Tunde Onakoya: An Entrepreneur Putting Nigeria On World Map

Born and raised in Lagos, Tunde Onakoya’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited at a young age. Fueled by a desire to create positive change and make a meaningful impact in his community, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery and exploration, seeking opportunities to leverage his skills and talents for the greater good.

Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Tunde Onakoya is also deeply committed to fostering entrepreneurship and empowering the next generation of Nigerian leaders. Recognizing the importance of mentorship and knowledge sharing, he actively engages with aspiring entrepreneurs, offering guidance, support, and invaluable insights gleaned from his own experiences.

Chess became more than just a game for Onakoya—it became a lifeline, offering him access to education and opportunities that seemed out of reach. Through scholarships and his own tenacity, Onakoya pursued a diploma in computer science at Yaba College of Technology, where he not only excelled academically but also distinguished himself as a gold medalist in various chess championships, including the Nigeria Polytechnic Games and the RCCG Chess Championship.

Reflecting on his journey, Onakoya acknowledges the profound impact chess had on his life, stating, “Finding chess gave me something. It gave me an identity, an intellectual one, and it made me believe that I could also be intellectually inclined…that through just this game, I could find my place in the world again.”

In September 2018, fueled by his own experiences and a deep-rooted desire to uplift marginalized communities, Onakoya founded Chess in Slums Africa—a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young children in impoverished areas through the game of chess. With a mission to provide access to education and foster critical thinking skills, Chess in Slums Africa has been instrumental in transforming the lives of children across slums in Lagos state and beyond.

Through innovative interventions and grassroots initiatives, Onakoya and his team have introduced chess programs to children in communities such as Majidun, Makoko, and Oshodi, offering them not only a chance to learn and excel in chess but also an opportunity to develop essential literacy skills and unlock their full potential.

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