New York, NY – Tunde Onakoya, the globally recognized chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, delivered a powerful keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2025 United Nations Games, advocating for the transformative power of chess in empowering marginalized youth.
Onakoya, a Guinness World Record holder, shared his profound experience, stating, “Yesterday, I had the rare and humbling honor of delivering a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2025 United Nations Games. It was my first official invite to a United Nations conference as a special guest, so it all felt surreal.”
Speaking alongside sporting legends like Manny Pacquiao and Giorgio Chiellini, Onakoya addressed esteemed ambassadors and diplomats, emphasizing the universal language of chess. “I spoke about the universal language of chess and how it transcends borders, race, class, and even disability,” he explained.
He highlighted the impactful work of his organizations, The Gift of Chess and Chess in Slums Africa, which utilize chess to educate and instill strategic thinking in children facing adversity. “We are using this game not just to educate and teach strategy, but to help every child believe they belong, and that there’s a place for them in the world,” Onakoya asserted.
In a poignant moment, Onakoya invited children from his program, including his friend Russ, to join him on stage. “The spotlight wasn’t just mine—it was theirs too,” he said. A young girl from the group delivered a heartfelt speech that elicited a standing ovation from the audience.
“I felt really proud as they didn’t just share the spotlight with me, they ignited it and showed that given the right opportunity, they can also shine on the world’s biggest stages,” Onakoya reflected. “Their story is fast becoming one the world can no longer ignore. My heart is full, our dreams are truly valid.”
Onakoya’s address underscored the potential of chess as a tool for social change, reinforcing his commitment to providing opportunities for children in underserved communities to realize their full potential.
