Date: (June 12th, 2024)
Meet Deborah Quickpen, our remarkable Children Spotlight of the Week! This 12-year-old Nigerian chess prodigy is not only making waves in the chess world but is also an inspiration to many.
Deborah’s journey began at the tender age of three when she was discovered by Edward Evbuomwan, Nigeria’s current national champion, who has been her coach ever since.
Despite coming from a humble background in Bayelsa, where her parents struggled to pay her tuition fees, Deborah’s talent and determination have propelled her to great heights.
At just 10 years old, Deborah won the U-10 African Youth Chess Championship in Accra, Ghana, earning her the Woman Candidate Master title. She became the youngest athlete to participate in the National Sports Festival, representing Bayelsa State, and went on to win three gold medals at the National Youth Games, an achievement that made history.
Deborah’s academic performance is as stellar as her chess career. Currently in JSS3, she has earned double promotions in primary school and maintains excellent grades. Her dedication and hard work have positioned her as the highest-ranked U-12 female chess player in Africa and the third in the world.
Her most significant recent accomplishment includes a monumental victory against South Africa’s WIM Jesse February, ending her six-game winning streak. Deborah’s tactical skills and unwavering determination have solidified her reputation as a formidable opponent on the chessboard.
This year, Deborah will represent Nigeria at the FIDE World Cup in Georgia, further showcasing her extraordinary talent on the international stage. With her impressive track record and potential, she is on a path to becoming West Africa’s first chess grandmaster, given the necessary financial support and visibility.
Deborah’s story is not just about chess. It’s a tale of resilience, passion, and the transformative power of dedication. She exemplifies how a young individual can rise above challenges to achieve greatness, inspiring countless others along the way.
On June 11, 2024, the much-anticipated clash between herself and Tunde Onakoya, tagged “Battle of The Ages,” held and ended in a draw.
“I have faced many tough opponents, but this will undoubtedly be my hardest match yet. I can categorically say that she is the future of chess in Nigeria,”Tunde Onakoya.
Congratulations Deborah Quickpen, your achievements and perseverance are truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing all the incredible things you will continue to accomplish.