The family of a talented young chess player from Umlazi is appealing for financial assistance after she was selected to represent South Africa at several upcoming international tournaments.
Eight-year-old Khethelo Mlaba, a Grade 2 learner at Sikhwelo Primary School in Section G, Umlazi, has rapidly risen through the ranks since she first started playing chess just last year.
Her passion and dedication to the game have earned her a place in the national team, where she will compete in international tournaments against players up to the age of 14.
However, the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and meals are significant, and her family is unable to afford the expenses on their own.
Among the tournaments she has qualified for is the Africa Youth Chess Championship, set to take place in Entebbe, Uganda, from May 14 to May 23. The cost per person is R30,755, which includes nine nights of accommodation.
She has also been selected to participate in the Commonwealth Chess Championship 2026, which will be held in Kalutara, Sri Lanka, from May 16 to May 26. This tournament will require a 13-night stay at a cost of R64,225 per person.
In June, Khethelo is expected to compete in the FIDE World Cadets Cup 2026 (Under 8, 10, and 12), taking place in Batumi, Georgia, from June 15 to June 18. The cost for this tournament is R58,897 per person, including 13 nights of accommodation.
Another major event on her calendar is the FIDE World Youth Championships (Under 14, 16, and 18), which will be hosted in Montesilvano, Italy, at a cost of R70,998 per person.
Khethelo’s mother, Xolile Masinga, said her daughter developed a love for chess by watching her older brother play at school.
Her journey began with success at district level, followed by strong performances at provincial tournaments. She went on to compete in the Inter-Provincial Championships held in the Eastern Cape in December last year, where she qualified for the prestigious South African Junior Closed Chess Championships 2026.
Khethelo placed third in the Under-8 girls’ category at the national championships, securing her spot to represent South Africa on the international stage.
“She is very excited about this opportunity and is confident she will achieve great results. The only challenge we are facing is the cost of travel,” said Masinga.
“We appeal to any good Samaritan who can assist. This will not only help fulfil her dream, but also inspire other young children and uplift the name of our province and South Africa.”
Those willing to assist can contact:
084 476 4151 / 081 553 0463
