The dust of everyday life often obscures extraordinary talent. In South Africa, a nation brimming with untold stories, one remarkable individual is proving that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places.
Meet Lukhanyo Dyanibokwe, a humble cleaner and building supervisor by profession, but a titan of the checkers board, currently reigning as South Africa’s undisputed Checkers champion since 2022. The national championship in Qonce, formerly King William’s Town, was a rigorous test of endurance and skill, where he ultimately emerged victorious, solidifying his reputation as the nation’s top contender.
His incredible journey is set to reach the global stage once again, as he prepares to represent his country at the prestigious Vidor 2025 World Checkers Festival, held in Vidor, Orange County, Texas, United States.
Timeline Of A Champion
This isn’t Lukhanyo’s inaugural international journey representing South Africa at checkers and draughts tournaments.
In May 2023, Lukhanyo competed against the current World Checkers Champion Alex Moiseyev in Turkey, where they played two draws. He then went on to proudly show Ronald King (aka Ron “Suki” King), the 12-time World Checkers Championship title winner from Barbados, a thing or two about the game by winning the match 1-0. Mr King is considered one of the strongest players of the game and has been honored by his homeland being named Barbados’s Sportsman of the Year in both 1991 and 1992.
In 2024, Lukhanyo traveled to Korbach in Germany where he played King once again in both blitz and qualifiers, ending in four draws. He brought home two trophies from the tournament: the World Championship Draughts Federation Trophy for 3-Move 3rd Place and a Trophy for 3-Move Blitz 2nd place. This format, known as 3-Move restriction, is a popular variant of checkers where the first three moves are drawn from a set list, creating a more diverse opening game.
Self-made Checkers Champion
Driven by his dreams, Lukhanyo raised funds for his tournaments through crowdfunding campaigns. A testament to his character and the widespread belief in his abilities, the residents of Wolroy House in Cape Town, where Lukhanyo has dedicated 13 years of service, have consistently rallied behind him, offering generous donations year after year.
From Zero To Hero!
Born at Somerset Hospital in Cape Town on September 11, 1989, and raised in Philippi—an impoverished settlement grappling with poverty, unemployment, and crime—Lukhanyo’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, strategic ingenuity, and humble determination. An inspiring demonstration of how perseverance and resourcefulness can overcome challenging circumstances.
Since the age of 13, the checkers board has been his sanctuary, a place where logical puzzles unfold and intricate strategies are meticulously crafted. Even his initial board and pieces were makeshift; he would cut pieces from cardboard boxes and use the school’s overhead projector to draw a board.
While his days are spent ensuring the pristine condition of Wolroy House, his evenings and weekends are dedicated to honing his craft, studying classic games, and practicing tirelessly.
His ascent to the top of the South African checkers scene has been nothing short of meteoric. Through local tournaments and regional qualifiers, Lukhanyo consistently outmaneuvered opponents with his calm demeanor and astute play. His victories were not just about winning games, but about demonstrating a profound understanding of the game’s nuances, often surprising seasoned players with his innovative approaches and tactical foresight.
Humble Hero
Despite his recent recognition, Lukhanyo stays remarkably humble, engaging with Wolroy House residents by graciously accepting their requests and challenges. His humility is as striking as his checkers prowess. He speaks of his passion for the game with quiet pride, emphasizing the mental challenge and the opportunities it offers. For him, checkers transcends mere play; it embodies the strength of focused thought, unwavering persistence, and the pursuit of passions, even when others see it as just a hobby.
Oprah captures this essence perfectly: “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.”
A reminder to all of us that true dedication transforms simple pastimes into expressions of purpose and vitality.
Go ahead and make us even prouder than we already are, Lukhanyo Dyanibokwe! If there’s anyone who can do it, it’s you. Believe in yourself and show the world what you’re capable of!
