Chess for change
๐ง๐ต๐ถ๐ ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐น๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฒ ๐ข๐ฐ๐๐ผ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฐ.
On the outskirts of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Lucky Nxumalo, a self-taught welder, is using chess to transform his community. Lucky's passion for the game is giving local children a chance to develop their minds and discover new possibilities. After years of seeking government support to teach chess, Luckyโs dream remained out of reach. It wasnโt until a chance encounter with a stranger that his vision began to take shape. With some support, the Hlulabantu Chess Garden was created: a space where local kids gather to learn and play. Despite earning modestly, Lucky teaches chess for free, believing the game sharpens strategic thinking and can lead to a brighter future for his community. Through one manโs unwavering dedication, the simple game of chess is becoming a powerful tool for education and empowerment in an area where opportunities are few.