A Fork, A Spoon, and A Knight

Video #641

Welcome to the ChessCafe.com Video Spotlight. Each Wednesday and Saturday we will feature a chess related video for your entertainment.

The life of Robert Katende, the founder and director of the Sports Outreach Chess Academy, has now been depicted in a short documentary. The film was released to commemorate the anniversary of the death of Nelson Mandela. Director Mira Nair believes this documentary will inspire young people everywhere as it brings to life a famous quote by Mandela, “Difficulties break some men, but make others.” See how Robert overcomes many challenges to complete school, become a teacher, a husband, father and member of Sports Outreach staff, while turning the Katwe slum of Kampala into a world famous chess sanctuary and place of healing for abandoned children.

Robert’s courage, fortitude and faith illustrates Mandela’s quote beautifully. The film also features a song written by Ugandan recording artist Edwin Ruyonga about Robert, “Ekitakumenya.” Please take a moment to be inspired and challenged as you enjoy the story of your friend and Sports Outreach staff member Robert Katende. Mira Nair is also directing the Walt Disney movie project “The Queen of Katwe,” starring Lupita Nyongo. The film is based on the book of the same name, by Tim Crothers, and tells the complete story of Robert as well as that of one of his students Phiona Mutesi.