Hlalefang spreads intellect in Alex
ALEXANDRA - The game of chess is firmly taking root in Alexandra and its all thanks to a visionary young man who sought to take the kids off the streets and away from mischief and to a game of wits
The game of chess is firmly taking root in Alexandra and it’s all thanks to a visionary young man, Jonathan Maliboho, who sought to take children off the streets and introduce them to the game of wits.
Maliboho (21), who lost his father just before the festive season, was crowned the LeadSA Youth Hero Award winner for December last year for his efforts in developing the game of chess in Alexandra and its surrounds.
A son of Alexandra, Maliboho was introduced to chess by a fellow resident who he only knew as John. “I first met John when he was playing chess with his friends as I was leaving the library with schoolmates and we asked if we could play a quick game, and he agreed. John then said to me I should consider taking up chess as a sport and the rest is now history,” said Maliboho.
He then had the vision to take Alex children off the streets, away from social ills such as substance abuse, criminal activity and the tendency to engage in early sexual activity.
“I had my own encounters with these social ills and decided to use my own situation to help other children and ensure they do not go the same route I had gone. I then formed Hlalefang Alexandra Chess Club in March 2014 to cultivate an interest in chess and develop the sport in Alex,” Maliboho said.
Hlalefang, which loosely translates to ‘intelligence’ in Sesotho, has more than 200 school players from both primary and high schools in Alex. It is a registered non-profit organisation and has seven divisions within the club.
The club is sponsored by non-profit organisation Donate A Piece, which focuses on the development of chess in townships and disadvantaged communities.
“My vision for Hlalefang is to help trigger an academic and recreational chess environment within the community of Alexandra. I want kids to start playing chess at an early age as I believe chess also helps in stimulating the brain and raising the IQ levels of scholars.”
Maliboho believes if the organisation received suitable partners, it could accomplish the goals set out in Hlalefang’s programme of action. “I, therefore, appeal to interested businesses to partner with Hlalefang to spread the intelligence.”
Details: Jonathan Maliboho 078 338 0672; jonathann@mweb.co.za
