Tunde Onakoya

Tunde Onakoya is a dreamer, social reformer, and Nigerian National Chess master. In 2018, he founded Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit organization that uses the game of chess as a framework to give children in impoverished communities access to education, technology, and mentorship.

The impact of this initiative has reached far beyond the borders of Nigeria, with stories of transformation featured on global media platforms like BBC, Al-Jazeera, and Deutsche Welle. Over 10,000 children’s lives have been touched, with 500 receiving fully funded scholarships to local and international institutions. But Tunde’s work doesn’t stop there. He’s a symbol of hope and possibilities, reminding us all that greatness knows no bounds. His mantra, “it is possible to do great things from a small place,” echoes in the hearts of those he inspires. Born and raised in the slums of Ikorodu, Lagos, Tunde knows firsthand the struggles these children face. He draws from his own life experiences to spark kindness and inspiration in young people around the globe.

Tunde Onakoya, known for his passion for storytelling, public speaking, and advocating for untapped potential, has shared his ideas on various stages, including multiple TEDx talks, the Oxford Africa Conference in England, and more recently, the prestigious DLD Conference held in Germany. In 2023, he was listed as one of 100 Most Impactful Africans by Ranks Africa. Beyond the stage, Tunde Onakoya actively engages in games of chess with fellow thought leaders, fostering connections that have the potential to amplify the impact of Chess in Slums Africa globally. His ability to articulate the mission and vision of his organization constantly garners attention and admiration, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to making chess an agent of change.

Tunde’s efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action in 2021, the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022, the JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria Award for Contribution to Children, World Peace, and/or Human Rights in 2022, the Trendupp Award for Force of Social Good in 2022, Leadership newspaper Humanitarian of the year and the Royal African Award in 2022. Tunde Onakoya continues to be a beacon of inspiration, not just within the realm of chess but in the broader context of using strategic thinking to shape a better world for all.