12-Year-Old’s Remarkable Rise: Chess In IDP Camps Indeed Transforms Lives

12-Year-Old’s Remarkable Rise: Chess In IDP Camps Indeed Transforms Lives
The “Chess in IDP Camps” initiative in Adamawa State is rewriting the future for children displaced by conflict.
Led by Vivian Ibrahim, a former beauty queen and founder of the Queen Vee Chess Academy, the program introduces children in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps to chess, fostering critical thinking, resilience, and hope.

Among its most inspiring success stories is 12-year-old Mary Victor Zira. Mary, who lived in an IDP camp, recently earned a full scholarship to the prestigious AUN Academy in Yola, Adamawa.
Her exceptional performance at a chess tournament last year opened this door of opportunity.
Speaking during Mary’s enrollment, Vivian shared her joy.
“We are here today to enroll one of our kids, Mary Victor Zira, into the AUN Academy JSS 2.”
“Mary is a member of the Chess in IDP Camps initiative, and her talent was showcased during a tournament last year.”
“Her performance caught the attention of donors worldwide, which is why we’re here today,” she said.
The initiative has already impacted over 60 children, with 50 successfully enrolled back in school.
Some attend private schools, while others are placed in government institutions.
Vivian is determined to expand the program to all seven IDP camps in Adamawa.
“Chess helps these children forget the trauma they’ve been through and provides them with a better environment to grow their skills and knowledge. We want to reach as many kids as possible and expose their talents to give them access to opportunities in life,” Vivian explained.
Mary’s journey began when Vivian introduced chess at her camp.
“I joined and learned how to play, and I am very happy that I did. I want to read and get a good education,” Mary shared.
Her performance at the tournament not only captivated the audience but also brought her global recognition.
Chess icon Tunde Onakoya attended the event, and a video of Mary’s game and interview went viral, attracting donations that secured her scholarship at AUN Academy.
“I want to thank my parents, Aunty Vivian, Uncle Tunde, and everyone who supported me. I’ll do my best to make them proud,” Mary promised, her voice filled with determination.
The Chess in IDP Camps initiative is more than just a chess program. It’s a tool of empowerment for children who have endured the harsh realities of displacement.
The game sharpens their minds, distracts them from their struggles, and ignites their potential.
The ripple effect of the program is already evident. With continued support, Vivian plans to reach every IDP camp in Adamawa, giving more children like Mary the chance to dream big.
Mary’s story is a beacon of hope. From the challenges of an IDP camp, she has risen to stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the brightest young minds in Adamawa.
Her journey reflects the transformative power of chess and the potential hidden in every child, waiting to be discovered.
As Mary begins her studies at AUN Academy, her success serves as a testament to what can happen when talent meets opportunity.
The Chess in IDP Camps initiative reminds us that even in the face of adversity, hope can flourish, and lives can be changed.
Through this initiative, children like Mary can dare to dream, armed with the skills and resilience to make those dreams a reality.
This is not just a story of chess; it is a story of triumph, hope, and the unyielding spirit of humanity.
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