Lagos, Nigeria – National Chess Master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa (CISA), Tunde Onakoya, has been appointed the first-ever Global Ambassador for WR Chess, marking a historic milestone in his journey to promote chess worldwide.
The appointment will see Onakoya embark on a global tour spanning Africa, Asia, and Latin America, culminating in a world record chess event scheduled for June in Peru.
WR Chess CEO Wadim Rosenstein, who has quietly supported the African chess community for the past four years, met with Onakoya in Paris before traveling together to Prague for the upcoming chess festival. The two leaders discussed a shared vision for expanding chess development and industrialization across Africa and beyond.
Reflecting on their common backgrounds, Onakoya noted that both he and Rosenstein “came from nothing, but chess opened doors we never imagined.” He emphasized their commitment to extending those opportunities to communities worldwide.
“I am proud to join the WR Chess family,” Onakoya said. “Even more excited for what we will build together. It is possible to do great things from a small place.”
His appointment signals a new chapter for African representation in global chess, with Onakoya poised to inspire and impact lives across continents through the game.