12-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Earns Spot in World Cadets Championship

Photo Credit: Flashlight Pictures

In just three years, 12-year-old Imkhitha Joya has made her mark on the chess world and now has the chance to represent SA at the World Cadets Championship!

Crossroads, South Africa (19 September 2023) — In a heartwarming tale of talent, determination, and community support, 12-year-old chess prodigy Imkhitha Joya, hailing from Crossroads in Cape Town, has earned the prestigious opportunity to represent South Africa at the highly anticipated World Cadets Championship 2023 in Egypt.

Scheduled to take place from October 14th to 27th, the championship is poised to be a defining moment in Imkhitha’s chess journey.

Pictured above: Imkhitha Joya (Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures)

Imkhitha’s rise in the world of chess is nothing short of remarkable. With just three years of dedicated practice, her growth has been meteoric. Originating from Crossroads, a community facing economic challenges, Imkhitha’s determination has propelled her beyond obstacles to achieve her current standing. Her relentless commitment to the game, combined with an unwavering passion, has earned her the title of the top-ranked player in the Western Cape and the second-ranked player in all of South Africa, boasting an impressive chess rating of 1501!

To facilitate Imkhitha’s participation in the World Cadets Chess Championship 2023, her dedicated coach, Thando Hlakula, who has been with her students every step of the way, initiated a crowdfunding campaign for Imkhitha.

Of her student, coach Thando shares:

“It still baffles me that a 12-year-old can reach this level of maturity. Imkhitha’s exceptional qualities extend beyond her chess skills. She exemplifies perseverance, discipline, analytical thinking, and the ability to handle pressure, making her a standout amongst her peers.”

Crowdfunding platform BackaBuddy tells Good Things Guy that Thando and Imkhitha’s mom decided to give the campaign another go after opting not to participate due to financial and time constraints.

But, because this could be quite the milestone moment for Imkhitha and the community she inspires, her second chance counts more than ever!

Chess lovers and dream supporters have been called on to help make Imkhitha’s journey to the World Cadets Chess Championship 2023 possible, and anyone called to help can find her campaign here.