Cape Town – At just 14 years old, Imkhitha Joya from Old Crossroads in Nyanga, Cape Town, is reshaping the future of South African chess — and doing it with grit, grace and remarkable talent.
Crowned the South African U14 Girls Chess Champion earlier this year, Imkhitha has already made waves at national and provincial level, finishing undefeated at the Junior Closed Chess Championships and sweeping the Western Cape High Schools U15 section with a flawless 6/6 score.
With a CHESSA rating of 1811, she now holds the title of top-ranked U14 girl in the country — and sixth overall among all South African female players.
But her greatest challenge yet isn’t across the board — it’s off it.
Despite qualifying for several international tournaments in 2025 — including the African Individual Chess Championships, the African Schools Championships and the FIDE Youth Olympiad — Imkhitha was forced to stay home each time due to a lack of funding.
“She worked so hard to qualify,” says her coach and mentor, Thando Hlakula. “But without funding, we couldn’t make it happen. Watching her miss out on experiences she earned was heartbreaking.”
Now, a second chance has arrived.
Imkhitha has been selected to represent South Africa at the World Youth Chess Championships in Albania this October and the African Youth Chess Championships in Algeria this December. These aren’t just routine competitions — they’re major stepping stones on her journey to becoming a Woman International Master, and ultimately, a grandmaster.
To make the dream possible, she needs to raise R94,100 to cover travel costs, accommodation, visas, entry fees, and daily expenses for both herself and her coach, who will serve as her guardian abroad. So far, just over R19,000 has been raised from eight generous donors.
“It’s been so moving to see people stepping up for her. Every bit of support, no matter the size, shows her that her hard work is seen and valued,” Thando says.
A Fighter from the Start
Imkhitha’s chess journey began in 2020 at Isigcawu Primary School through a local programme. Her natural talent quickly stood out, but her early days were far from glamorous.
“She lost every single game in her first tournament,” Thando recalls. “But what stood out wasn’t the loss — it was how she responded. She didn’t cry. She didn’t complain. She asked when the next tournament was.”
“She kept showing up, kept learning, and kept improving.
“She has a hunger to learn that I’ve rarely seen,” says Thando. “She doesn’t want to just be the best — she wants to keep getting better.”
Her persistence paid off. With hours of daily training — sometimes up to eight hours a day — she has grown into one of the country’s most promising young players.
In 2024, she came heartbreakingly close to victory at the SA Junior Closed Championships. Instead of folding under the pressure, she came back stronger this year, beat the defending champion, and walked away undefeated.
“It was a proud moment — one we’ll never forget,” says Thando.
More Than Just Chess
But for Imkhitha, the journey is about more than winning titles.
“Representing South Africa is something she takes very seriously,” says Thando.
“Her story challenges what people think is possible for young girls in townships like Crossroads. She’s showing that brilliance, discipline, and greatness can come from anywhere — all they need is a chance.”
As a young Black girl excelling in a traditionally male-dominated, Eurocentric sport, Imkhitha is challenging norms and inspiring the next generation. Her discipline, humility and focus are now legendary among her peers and mentors.
“She’s not just playing chess,” says Thando. “She’s making a statement — that brilliance can come from anywhere, if it’s given a chance.”
Help Make Her Dream a Reality
Travelling across continents is no small feat, especially for a 14-year-old. That’s why Thando will accompany her — to help with logistics, provide emotional support, and coach her through the highs and lows of elite competition.
“She needs someone she trusts by her side,” Thando explains. “Not just for logistics, but for emotional support. Someone to help her stay grounded, strategise between rounds, and remind her why she belongs on that stage.”
To support Imkhitha Joya, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link below:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/get-imkhitha-to-the-world-chess-championship
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Pictures: Supplied
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
