Westwood learner makes his move on the African chess stage
With determination, confidence and a steadily sharpening skill set, Iowan's chess journey is clearly only just beginning.
At 12 years old, Iowan Mann has already shown that bold moves can change the course of a game and a future.
The Laerskool Westwood learner represented South Africa at the African Youth Chess Championship (AYCC) in Zimbabwe during December 2025, where he finished among the top five players in Africa in the U12 open section.
Iowan’s chess journey began three years ago, when he was introduced to the game during an outreach programme in Boksburg. His talent was evident from the start. On the same day he learned the rules, he entered his first tournament and secured a second-place finish.
Since then, his rise through the ranks has been rapid. Earlier in 2025, Iowan qualified for the AYCC after earning a place on the national team at the South African Junior Closed Chess Championships.
He later added another major achievement to his growing list of accolades by finishing first at the Gauteng Schools Championship in August.
Competing against the best young players on the continent proved to be a defining experience.
Iowan said the biggest lesson he took away from the championship was realising he does not need to be afraid when facing top opponents and that he can stand his ground against Africa’s best.
Representing South Africa on an international stage has also boosted his confidence.
“It gave me more self-confidence,” he said, adding that the tournament helped him grow not only as a player but also in how he views himself competitively.
From a technical perspective, Iowan believes his endgame improved the most during the AYCC – an area he continues to focus on in his daily training.
Balancing schoolwork with competitive chess requires discipline. Iowan trains every day, while ensuring his schoolwork is not affected, and attends competitions mainly over weekends.
Looking ahead, the young chess star has clear ambitions. His next goals include winning the African Schools Chess Championship, which will be hosted in South Africa later this year, and obtaining an international chess title.
