Victory Ashaka
Growing up in Nigeria, some of Victory’s earliest experiences involved witnessing the impact of the denial of basic human rights. As an award-winning spoken word poet and climate leader, Victory uses creative expression to highlight the issues in his community including climate education, sustainable environmental practices and youth empowerment.
“Growing up in Lagos, I’ve always been aware of the harsh realities and inequalities faced by children in informal communities like Makoko, where education often feels like a luxury rather than a right. As a spoken word poet and youth ambassador who has worked across underserved communities, I’ve seen firsthand how education transforms not just futures but identities.
That’s what drew me to the Chess in Slums story: it’s not just about a game, it’s about giving out-of-school children access to dignity, discovery and direction. The blend of play and purpose struck a personal chord with me. In a world often quick to write off children from slum communities, this systemic change by the initiative reminds us that greatness also comes from the most unlikely places and we can do big things from a small place. I no longer see social issues through the lens of problems, but rather a call for intervention through a systemic approach.
This story matters deeply to me because it mirrors a bigger truth I’ve seen across my social impact work. Young people don’t lack potential, they lack access to opportunities. What Chess in Slums is doing by turning pawns into queens and kings is symbolic of the transformation education enables. And at a time when the world is confronting both an education and inequality crisis, I believe stories like this one can spark movements and inspire change.
I hope that by watching my video story/documentary, people are moved to support grassroots innovation. I hope that more people will be inspired to embark on social impact projects, advocate for inclusive policies, and most importantly, believe again in the power of young people to change the world no matter where they come from.”