The Chess Experience Nigerian Star Uses Chess to Improve Others’ Lives & Her Own w/ WFM Perpetual Ogbiyoyo
Feb 4, 2025
WFM Perpetual Ogbiyoyo, a remarkable Woman FIDE Master from Nigeria, shares her inspiring journey from learning chess at 19 to her rapid rise in the chess community. She founded Promoting Queens to empower girls through chess, showcasing the vibrant culture of chess in Nigeria. Ogbiyoyo talks about her dreams of becoming Nigeria’s first woman Grandmaster and her commitment to teaching the next generation. With a passion for growth and inclusivity, she emphasizes the transformative power of chess in fostering confidence and resilience among young girls.
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Learning Chess at 19
- Perpetual Ogbiyoyo learned chess at 19 during a university strike when a chess set was brought to her dorm.
- She self-taught previously on a computer, and rediscovered the knight's movement upon playing in person.
Rapid Rise to WFM Title
- Within a year of serious training and coaching, Perpetual achieved a 1800+ FIDE rating and earned the Woman FIDE Master title.
- She scored 6 out of 7 at the Chess Olympiad, impressing with intensive preparation and mindset.
Chess Shaped Her Life
- Chess helped Perpetual grow mentally by teaching her to seek solutions rather than dwell on problems.
- It provided financial support and shaped her into a responsible adult during challenging times.