The Dominican Convent High Harare chess team, poised to represent Zimbabwe at the prestigious FIDE World Schools Team Championship, today received a significant boost through a generous sponsorship from NMB Bank.
A vibrant send-off ceremony at Dominican Convent saw the unveiling of a US$5,000 cheque, marking a pivotal moment for the young athletes just before their departure for Washington D.C., USA.
The talented team, comprising Ropafadzo Gwatidzo, Genevieve Moyo, Crystal Chaitezvi, Precious Gwena, Miranda Muchaka, Maita Mangwende (team captain), Ropafadzo Chikwanda, and Rosemary Omiti, earned their spot after excelling at the third edition of the Crystal Candy National League Chess Finals in May.
They are set to compete in an 8-round Swiss format tournament at the renowned Episcopal High School, running from August 2nd to 7th.
NMB Bank’s Commitment to Youth Development
Faustina Marowa, NMB Branch and Business Development Manager, highlighted the bank’s dedication to nurturing young talent.
“At NMB Bank, we believe in investing in the future, and that future lies in the brilliance, discipline, and determination of our youth,” she stated. “Chess is more than a game; it teaches strategy, patience, and resilience, and these qualities build leaders. By supporting this team, we are not just sponsoring a trip, but we are nurturing excellence.”
Expanding Chess Opportunities
Dominican Convent Headmistress, Sister Kudzai Mutsure, expressed her excitement about the sponsorship and emphasized its potential for broader impact.
“I am excited about this sponsorship from NMB Bank. I have already spoken to them about the fact that they need to sponsor a chess tournament every year so that we can also develop chess in the underprivileged schools,” she remarked.
She further elaborated on the need to extend chess opportunities: “As much as we are doing well as Dominican Convent, I am very sure that there are some talented girls who do not have the opportunity to play chess, and once we get a sponsor, we can take it to the grassroots. I am very confident of my girls. I think they have shown us that they are actually excellent because two years in a row Convent has been the national champions.”
Confidence in the Team
Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) President Todd Mapingire acknowledged the collective support for the team. “I am honored to stand before you today as the President of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, representing our vibrant chess community. I would like to express our deepest gratitude to each of our valued sponsors and supporters,” he said, extending thanks to FIDE, Crystal Candy, parents, and Dominican Convent School.
Mapingire, who will serve as the Head of Delegation, expressed his confidence: “We are confident that our team will showcase their skills and make a mark on the global stage.”
The team’s management includes Phyllis Shamuyarira as team manager and Lewis Kahoba as coach, with James Vhezha traveling as the ZCF official.
This sponsorship from NMB Bank is a testament to a vital partnership aimed at fostering young talent and elevating Zimbabwe’s presence on the international chess stage.
