The Incredible Rise of Tani Adewumi from Homeless Shelter to Chess Master

Tanitoluwa Emmanuel "Tani" Adewumi's journey from a Nigerian refugee to a celebrated chess prodigy in the United States is a testament to resilience, talent, and the transformative power of opportunity.

Born on September 3, 2010, in Nigeria, Tani and his family fled their homeland in 2017 to escape threats from the terrorist group Boko Haram, which targeted Christians like them. Upon arriving in New York City, the Adewumi family found refuge in a homeless shelter, facing the daunting challenges of resettlement in a new country .

Despite these hardships, Tani's innate curiosity and determination shone through. Enrolled at P.S. 116 in Manhattan, he was introduced to chess by a part-time teacher. Captivated by the game's strategic depth, Tani expressed a strong desire to join the school's chess club. Understanding the family's financial constraints, club organizer Russell Makofsky graciously waived the membership fees, allowing Tani to pursue his newfound passion .

Starting with a modest chess rating of 105, Tani's rapid progression was nothing short of remarkable. Within a year, his rating soared to 1587, a feat that typically takes seasoned players much longer to achieve. His dedication was evident; he regularly attended free practice sessions in Harlem and utilized his father's laptop to hone his skills at night .

In March 2019, Tani's hard work culminated in a stunning victory at the New York State Scholastic Championships, where he clinched the top spot in the kindergarten through third-grade division. Competing against 73 of the state's best young players, many from privileged backgrounds with access to private tutors, Tani's triumph was a powerful narrative of talent overcoming adversity .

The media quickly picked up on Tani's inspiring story, leading to widespread recognition. A GoFundMe campaign launched to support his family exceeded expectations, raising over \$250,000 in just ten days. Demonstrating humility and a commitment to giving back, the Adewumis allocated a portion of these funds to assist other struggling African immigrants and established the Tanitoluwa Adewumi Foundation to support underprivileged children .

Tani's chess career continued to flourish. By the age of 10, he achieved the title of National Master, becoming one of the youngest to do so. His relentless pursuit of excellence didn't stop there; he aspired to become the youngest grandmaster, dedicating countless hours to study and practice. His current FIDE rating stands at an impressive 2362, reflecting his continued growth and potential in the chess world .

Beyond the chessboard, Tani's life has been enriched by various experiences. He co-authored a memoir titled "My Name Is Tani . . . and I Believe in Miracles," sharing his journey with a broader audience. The story garnered interest from the entertainment industry, with Paramount Pictures securing the rights for a film adaptation. Additionally, Tani has engaged in public events, including a memorable encounter with NBA player Jaime Jaquez Jr., where they exchanged skills in chess and basketball, highlighting Tani's multifaceted personality .

In December 2022, a significant chapter in Tani's life concluded when he and his family were granted asylum in the United States. This decision provided them with the stability and security they had long sought, allowing Tani to focus entirely on his passion for chess and his aspirations for the future .

Tanitoluwa Adewumi's story is not just about chess; it's about the indomitable human spirit, the importance of community support, and the boundless possibilities that arise when talent meets opportunity. His journey continues to inspire countless individuals around the world, reminding us all of the extraordinary potential within every child.