Mary Victor Zira, a 12-year-old chess prodigy from an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Nigeria, has won a silver medal at the prestigious Chess and Community Tournament in the United States. Competing alongside her teammate Ivie Clement Urieto, Mary secured second place and a $100 cash prize, marking a significant milestone in her rising chess career.
Mary was among five children selected from the Chess in IDP Camps initiative and Chess in Slums program to travel to the U.S. for the Chess and Community Program. She will now proceed to New York City for another major tournament.
Mary’s journey from the IDP camp to the global chess stage has been remarkable. Discovered and trained by Vivian Ibrahim, a dedicated chess coach and former beauty queen, Mary developed her skills through the Chess in IDP Camps initiative. Her talent first gained national attention after an outstanding performance at a championship in Malkohi IDP Camp, Yola, which was witnessed by global chess champion Tunde Onakoya. His endorsement helped propel Mary into the spotlight, attracting sponsorship and support from around the world.
Through this support, Mary secured a scholarship to the prestigious American University of Nigeria Academy, transitioning from the challenging conditions of an IDP camp to an institution known for academic excellence.
Vivian Ibrahim, who has mentored Mary and other displaced children, expressed her joy at the achievement. “My heart is overjoyed. I don’t even know what to say. Who would have thought that a child born in an IDP camp would gain global recognition?” she said. “Mary’s success will inspire us to do more for the other kids in our program. With more funding and support, we can transform many more lives.”
Mary’s silver medal win underscores the impact of education and opportunity on young talents. Her success story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the power of chess to change lives. As she prepares for her next competition in New York, the world watches in anticipation of what she will achieve next.