POLOKWANE – At just eight-years-old, Mikayla Faith Katlego Dolo, a learner at Pietersburg English Medium Primary School (PEMPS), is on the verge of an extraordinary milestone, representing South Africa at the Commonwealth Chess Championships 2025 in Malaysia.

The championships, set to take place from November 8 to 17, will bring together the best young chess players from across the world.

But for Mikayla, the dream of competing internationally depends on whether her family can raise the R40 000 needed to cover flights, accommodation, participation fees, and uniform costs.

Her parents, Ezekiel and Kolobetso Dolo, have reached out to the community and local businesses for help after exhausting every other option.

“It would mean the world for her to compete internationally because she has been so dedicated to improving in the sport and she has shown so much potential,” said her father, Ezekiel Dolo.

Since picking up chess in 2023, Mikayla’s rise has been remarkable.

She competed in the South African Closed Junior Chess Championship in Cape Town and later qualified to represent South Africa in Kenya, though she couldn’t attend due to school commitments.

Now, she has earned a coveted spot at the Commonwealth Championships, an opportunity that could change her life and set her on course for a future in competitive chess.

Those willing to assist Mikayla in reaching Malaysia can contact her mother, Kolobetso Dolo, at 072 156 4779 or via email at momvtm@gmail.com.