Crossroads Chess Club in Crossroads is appealing for financial support to help Hazeldene Primary School learner from Mitchells Plain, Nizibone Xabadiya attend the 2026 African Schools Individual Chess Championship (ASICC) in Windhoek, Namibia, in December.

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Hazeldene learner set for continental stage

Xabadiya, 13, will represent South Africa in the u-14 girls’ category at the tournament, which will take place from Sunday 6 December to Monday 14 December.

Club coach Thando Hlakula is calling on sponsors and members of the community to help make her participation possible.

Selection earned at SA Schools Championship

He said Xabadiya earned her national selection at the South African Schools Chess Championship, held at DF Akademie in Bellville in June this year.

“In the SA Schools Chess Championship, Xabadiya was representing her school, Hazeldene Primary, but she is a member of Crossroads Chess Club. That is why, as her local coach, I decided to step in and assist her when I heard that she was struggling to raise funds to attend the tournament.

“It is every child’s dream to wear national colours and represent his or her country. We want to fulfil her dream,” said Hlakula.

Community urged to help raise R60 000

He said an estimated R60 000 is needed to cover the costs for Xabadiya and the coach who will accompany her.

“The funds will cover accommodation, flight tickets, tracksuits, tournament fees, travel documents and other expenses. We are appealing to any businessperson or organisation to assist us in making her dream come true,” he said.

Anyone who would like to contribute can contact Xabadiya’s coach, Thando Hlakula, on 067 921 7134.