A renowned chess club in Kampala, Uganda, which inspired the Disney film Queen of Katwe, continues to cultivate talented players, despite facing persistent financial challenges. Led by coach Robert Katende, depicted by actor David Oyelowo in the movie, Katende remains committed to transforming children’s lives through chess. “We use chess as a teaching tool to help identify and guide the potential of our learners,” he explained during a visit to his SomChess Academy in Katwe, a disadvantaged area of the city.
Initially a civil engineering graduate, Katende transitioned to chess coaching in 2004, beginning with a single chessboard. His efforts bore fruit with Phiona Mutesi, who joined the academy at just nine years old, despite previously dropping out of school. Mutesi’s extraordinary journey to become a chess master and a national junior champion was notably captured in the film, featuring actress Lupita Nyong’o as her mother.
Today, the academy inspires young talents like 18-year-old Patricia Kawuma, who attributes her growth to chess, stating it has taught her strategy and discipline while also funding her education through winnings. Over 4,000 children have participated in Katende’s programs over the years, some eventually becoming professionals in various fields.
While Katende received a one-time financial boost from Disney for his initiatives, the film’s unexpected financial loss has led to some misconceptions about his wealth. Yet, he remains optimistic, affirming that the film’s exposure has drawn significant interest to his life-changing programs.
Source: www.bbc.com
