Chess in Slums Africa (CISA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting children in underserved communities through chess, STEM education, and socio-emotional development.
Founded in 2018 by Tunde Onakoya, CISA started with a simple goal: teaching chess to children in slum communities as a way to enhance their cognitive and life skills.
Over the years, our programs have grown to include comprehensive educational initiatives that integrate robotics, AI, and digital literacy alongside chess education. We provide holistic support to children, addressing not only their educational needs but also their social and emotional well-being.
Through scholarships, vocational training, and mentorship, we ensure that beneficiaries receive continuous guidance until they become productive, empowered, and responsible members of society.
CISA operates in several slum communities across Nigeria, focusing on creating safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environments.
CISA’s core initiatives are driven by the C.A.S.T.L.E. framework:
Through chess, we engage vulnerable children using a game that builds intellectual capacity, discipline, and confidence. As they learn to think strategically, anticipate consequences, and solve complex problems, they develop essential life skills such as critical thinking, patience, focus, and resilience.
Regular practice and participation in tournaments expose them to healthy competition, new environments, and opportunities beyond their immediate circumstances, empowering them to believe in their potential, make better decisions, and pursue a stronger future.
We equip our champions with a strong foundation in STEM and digital skills, preparing them to thrive in the future economy and become innovators, creators, and problem-solvers.
Through immersive, hands-on learning, they explore robotics, virtual reality, artificial intelligence (AI), coding, graphic design, machine learning, web development, and more, unlocking pathways to opportunities once beyond their reach.
We provide academic scholarships, vocational training, civic education, and mentorship that empower participants to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience.
By combining practical skills, critical thinking, and personal development, we help our champions discover their potential, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities.
Our programs nurture future leaders who not only excel personally but also inspire and uplift their communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond the chessboard.
Achieving meaningful impact requires courage to explore new paths and the determination to turn small beginnings into significant successes. This mindset defines who we are.
We draw inspiration from the game of chess. Just as a pawn, often seen as the weakest piece, can be promoted to a queen, the most powerful piece on the board, upon reaching the eighth rank, we believe every child has the potential to rise above disadvantaged circumstances and step into a future of strength and opportunity.
At Chess in Slums Africa, we serve as the bridge between potential and possibility. We connect children to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to achieve lasting success.
For us, empowerment means giving every child the chance to dream boldly, grow confidently, and pursue a brighter future.
Be the first to hear about our latest programs, success stories, and ways you can support our mission to transform lives through chess.
