According to the underwriter, the the gesture is to demonstrate its belief that quality healthcare should be accessible, available and affordable to everyone, notwithstanding socio-economic class, gender or age.

The free health insurance, according to the company, is in line with its drive for inclusive protection; one of its sustainability pillars.

“Inclusive protection is one of the ways we ensure that we bring vulnerable members of the public into the protection net”, said Adebola Surakat, the chief marketing officer, AXA Mansard. 

Surakat said that the company believes that a sustainable world is an insurable world, hence all well-meaning individuals, social, and corporate citizens must commit to continue to bridge the societal gaps.

She said:

“For us at AXA Mansard, we are happy to be undertaking this initiative with Chess in Slums.

We are convinced that their endeavour with children in vulnerable communities is commendable. So, this is our way of showing them support. We hope this gesture will serve as an elixir for them to do more”.

Surakat noted that AXA will continue to push the boundaries of making the society a better place.

She explained that it is when everyone commits to contributing their quota that we can have a truly sustainable world.

She said the quest for sustainable world is the core of AXA’s purpose to act for human progress by protecting what matters.

“So as the children benefit from good and quality healthcare and with  the impact from Chess In Slums, they will grow to become worthy ambassadors that will drive our collective progress” she said.

“It is expected that this health cover will provide the children with necessary curative treatments, regular check-ups, and preventive health care without financial strain on their parents and community.

“At Chess in Slums, we take a holistic approach to child and community development, recognizing that a child’s well-being is deeply interconnected with their environment, health, and opportunities for growth.

This is because we understand that if we must inspire genuine transformation, we must also address the multiple layers of complexities influencing their lives, from education to family support,  healthcare and education. Our partnership with AXA Mansard Health is crucial in removing the barriers to health and ensuring that children in vulnerable communities have access to essential healthcare.

By doing this, we are not just empowering these children—we are creating a foundation for sustainable, long-term development for both the families and the community” said Emmanuel Abiodun Oke, the chief operating officer, Chess in Slums Africa.

The initiative aligns with our ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support. In addition to this donation, the company continues to engage in various charitable activities and partnerships that promote health, education, and community development.

Chess, on the surface, seems far removed from the realities of daily struggles — who would think of that in such situations?

But for Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, chess is more than just a game that could be inconsequential in difficult situations, it’s a potent tool that can empower millions.

The 60-hour chess marathon was a fundraising and awareness campaign for Onakoya’s ongoing initiative, Chess in Slums Africa. 

He pushed himself to the limit, playing non-stop with Shawn Martinez, a US chess champion, in New York City’s Times Square, to raise $1 million for children’s education across Africa. So far, a little over $119,000 has been raised and still ongoing. 

Tunde Onakoya has received support from Nigerians all over the world. President Bola Tinubu, Yemi Osinbajo, Atiku Abubakar, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Tony Elumelu among others, have commended his achievement and goal. 

Onakoya’s own story personifies the reason for his initiative. Growing up in an economically disadvantaged background himself, he found solace and a path forward through chess. 

This firsthand experience brought about his vision to use chess as a springboard for underprivileged children in Lagos, Nigeria. 

He launched Chess in Slums Africa in 2018, determined to break the cycle of poverty and societal marginalization.

The Opportunities Chess Brings 

Chess in Slums Africa doesn’t just teach the moves on the board. The organization’s approach leverages the multifaceted benefits of chess to make life better:

Educational Empowerment

Teaching us to look beyond the immediate task and consider the broader impact of our actions, Chess is a springboard for broader learning and Tunde identified that it could be more than a game. 

The organization integrates basic literacy and numeracy skills into its chess programs, teaching academic, educational, and critical thinking skills to those who might not have access to formal education.

Life Skills Development

The strategic thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking gained through chess are important skills that benefit everyone in all aspects of life.

What makes Chess in Slums unique is its willingness to go where others might avoid, the very heart of slum communities. 

Just as a pawn in chess can be promoted to a queen when it reaches the eighth rank, Tunde believes that every child can be elevated from their disadvantaged position. 

The organization acts as a bridge, connecting these children to a brighter future where they can attain meaningful positions and status.

For businesses, this means investing in the development of your team’s core skills. These transferable skills will benefit them in all areas of their work.

Confidence and Self-Esteem

Success in chess tournaments enhances self-esteem and confidence. Everyone should really try it out.

Chess in Slums Africa believes that every child deserves a chance and a reason to dream. Regardless of their background, these children are the future leaders that tomorrow needs.

Celebrate successes, both big and small. Recognition builds confidence and motivates your team as a business.

Scholarship Opportunities

Chess in Slums Africa has secured scholarships for talented students to attend better schools through collaborations with international, domestic, and governmental bodies, companies, celebrities, organizations, and institutions. Over 200 children from indigent homes have secured lifelong scholarships.

This highlights the need for businesses to invest in the future by mentoring and providing opportunities for growth within their team.

A Safe Space

Chess in Slums Africa programs provide a safe and positive environment for children in challenging circumstances. They can learn, play, and socialize with peers in a structured setting. 

This means a positive and supportive work environment where your team feels safe to take risks and learn from mistakes, is highly essential for every business.

Chess in Slums Africa has impacted over 10,000 children’s lives. Tunde Onakoya has received numerous accolades, including The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action and the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year.

A New Identity

Onakoya himself understands that chess might not directly put food on the table for these children every day. But what it can do is provide them with a new identity. 

Chess in Slums Africa operates in Lagos State, reaching out to children in communities like Ikorodu, Makoko, Oshodi, and Lekki-Epe. 

Despite his own battles and a recent surgery, Onakoya has not let these limit his vision. He is thriving to prove that it is possible to do great things from a small place.

His 60-hour marathon, undertaken in collaboration with The Gift of Chess, was not just to break a record, but using chess to expand opportunities and connections across society.

Key Takeaways:

Purpose Beyond Profit

While financial success is important, there’s great value in aligning your business with a cause you believe in. Chess in Slums Africa isn’t about generating profit; it’s about social impact. 

Finding a purpose beyond financial gain can boost your passion and motivate your team.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Huge change often starts with small actions. Onakoya began by teaching chess in his community and that small step was turned into a movement impacting thousands. 

Similarly, business owners can create positivity by focusing on ethical practices, environmental responsibility, and community engagement.

Relentless Perseverance

The road to success is rarely smooth. Tunde Onakoya has personally overcome challenges in his mission pursuit. 

Entrepreneurs and goal-driven individuals must cultivate perseverance to scale through setbacks and keep pushing forward.

The Power of Community

Onakoya’s 60-hour marathon drew support from Nigerians around the world. Building a strong community around your business, whether through customer engagement, employee relations, or partnerships, can bolster your efforts and drive you towards your goals.