Nine-year-old chess sensation Atlehang Malemane has raised more than R105,000 through a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign to compete in the Commonwealth Chess Championships 2026 in Sri Lanka. The effort, started by her mother Mpho Malemane earlier this month, exceeded its R102,240 target before the registration deadline. Atlehang will now represent Team South Africa from May 16 to 26.
Atlehang Malemane's crowdfunding success covers international flights, visas, accommodation, meals, tournament entry and FIDE fees, Chess SA administration, uniforms, and other travel expenses. Mpho Malemane told TimesLIVE, “We are absolutely grateful to our fellow South Africans who helped us raise the funds for Atlehang to go to Sri Lanka just before the closing date.” She added that passports are ready and Chess SA is assisting with visa applications for the mother-daughter trip. The campaign gained momentum with donations ranging from R50 to R20,000 after a slow start. The grade 4 pupil holds a Junior Master title and South African national colours. She began playing chess at age three with her father and deepened her interest at school, showing natural strategic ability. Since joining the national circuit in 2024, Atlehang has stayed in the top five rankings while excelling academically and in extracurriculars. Mpho Malemane said her daughter is now focused on preparations, training with her coach and practicing at home. “Atlehang is reading her chess books and says she is ready to give Sri Lanka all the chess she has ever learned,” she noted. Atlehang has also been selected for the FIDE World Cadets Chess Championship 2026 in Batumi, Georgia, in June, requiring another R105,061 by the end of April.