Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
CHINHOYI Technical High School chess player, Tawanda Mhako scooped a gold medal at the National NASH Chess Scholars Championships that were held from April 11- 13, 2025 at the school last week.
Chinhoyi High and Nemakonde represented Mashonaland West province in the contest, which had 28 players − 14 girls and 14 boys per each province. Seven age groups competed from Under 20. 18,17,16,15,14 and 13.
Mhako is the son of former ZBC Mashonaland West Bureau chief, Regis, and scooped gold in the Under 21 category.
Ashley Koropi from St Mary’s High Harare Province came second while Tadisa Mutero from Matabeleland North came third.
Winning the tournament has provided the Upper 6 student, Mhako recognition both within the chess community and in broader contexts.
Teacher in Charge of chess at the School, Rodney Neshamba, told H-Metro the win reflects dedication and hard work which has enhanced his self-esteem and confidence.
Neshamba said early success might also open doors to various career paths related to chess, such as becoming a chess coach, content creator, or professional player.
“Winning chess tournaments at a young age can have a profound impact on a person’s life, both in terms of their personal growth and future opportunities, “ said Neshamba.
Mhako said he has learnt valuable social connections, as competing in these tournaments has allowed him to connect with others who share the same interests.
“Chess needs a lot discipline and time management as competing at a higher level often requires a commitment to practice and improvement, which helps develop discipline, time management skills, and a strong work ethic which are valuable traits in any career,” he said.
Mhako believes that engaging in competitive chess can enhance critical thinking, problem solving abilities, and cognitive skills.
“These benefits can translate to improved academic performance in other subjects, “said Mhako.
He developed passion for the game at a tender age whilst in primary school.
“I started playing chess when I was in fifth grade while 11 years old.
“That very year, I actually managed to attend my first national competitions while I was at Sinioa Primary,” he said.
He said his first podium finish was third when he was a 12- year-old and in grade six.
The 18- year-old managed to write his own piece of history when he scooped his first prize in 2020 at Jameson High school.
“When I was 16 years and in Form Three, I went for the Zimbabwe Under 16 Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) Competition and I scooped first prize for two years in a row,” he said.
Mhako said he was selected to represent the country at Africa Youth Chess Championships that were held in South Africa.
“It was another tense tournament having to represent my country and playing against top players from other nations at a continental event.
“I actually came 13th out of 44 participants with 5 points from a possible nine points,” he said
