A Grade 3 Girl from Chililabombwe District, Copperbelt Province, has taken the chess fraternity in Zambia by storm as a rising star representing Zambia in international tournaments.
Vice Tournament Director for Lusaka Province Chess Association, Mary Mashane, remarks that Atusayi Atupele Sichali started playing chess two years ago when she participated in a tournament.
Mashane explains that since 2021, Sichali has become an active player, participating in various tournaments.
She said, that this year, the 7-year-old girl impressed chess experts by coming first in the Zambia Youth Chess Tournament, where players were selected to represent Zambia in the Africa Youth Chess Championship.
She revealed that Sichali secured the 8th position, which was a significant achievement in such a major tournament.
Mashane said that for Sichali to improve further, she needs to participate in more tournaments, both local and international.
“The more she plays against international players, the better she will become, as these are the same players she will meet in junior tournaments. In Zambia, she often plays against the same opponents, which motivates her and gives her valuable experience to compete internationally,” she said.
As Sichali’s Mentor and Coach, Mashane is excited about her progress.
“Watching her grow under the guidance of Coach International Master (IM) Kelvin Chumfwa has been inspiring,” she said.
Mashane said Sichali has shown great dedication and love for the game, wanting to participate in every tournament possible.
She encourages other youngsters to join the tournaments, as it helps in grooming them into better individuals through the sport.
In an interview, Sichali expressed her determination and ambition as a young chess champion.
“I am inspired by my Mom, my Dad, my Coach IM Kelvin Chumfwa, and my sister,” she said.
“I started playing chess in 2021, and I am now seven years old and in grade 3,” she added.
The budding chess star shared her future aspirations: “When I complete school, I want to become a Bank Governor who signs money. I also aspire to be a Grandmaster in chess, which is why I put in so much effort,” she asserted.
