Randfontein High School learner and Uni-Mates Chess Club member Kganya Sehularo (17) is set to represent South Africa at the Commonwealth Chess Championships in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 9–16.

Kganya secured his spot after ranking among the top 20 U18 chess players in South Africa, and later finishing in the top 10 at the South African Junior Chess Championships – a performance that earned him a place on the national team.

In preparation for the tournament, he continues to train intensively, sharpening both his technique and his physical and mental endurance.

Although he has been playing chess since the age of five, Kganya said his true passion for the game deepened during the Covid-19 lockdown.

“During the 2020 lockdown, I found solace in chess – a game that helped me cope with the overwhelming sense of isolation. Little did I know, this newfound passion would become a defining aspect of my life, teaching me resilience, focus, and the joy of strategic competition,” he shared.

Offering advice to other young players, he added:

“Try to stay consistent in your improvement, even when progress feels slow. It may take time, but it will pay off.”