Publisher Description
Robert Katende, named an African Ambassador to the Obama Foundation and voted the most influential man in Uganda by New Hope Newspaper.
Once too poor to afford the rat poison with which he planned to take his own life, Robert’s legacy tells an astonishing true story of resilience and hope. His work was made famous in the Disney movie Queen of Katwe, a biographical drama about a 13-year-old girl who became a Uganda National Chess Champion under Robert’s mentorship. Now readers will get a first-hand account of how it all started, and the life of the man behind Phiona Mutesi’s world-renown accomplishments.
The story, presented in two parts, first from Robert—war refugee turned missionary living the improbable dream to empower kids in Ugandan slums through chess—a game so foreign there is no word for it in their native language. You’ll ride along the deep valleys and high mountaintops of Robert’s childhood as he beats impossibilities that would have likely crushed most anyone else. The story, presented in two parts—first from war refugee turned missionary living the improbable dream to empower kids in Ugandan slums through chess—a game so foreign there is no word for it in their native language. Then by debut author Nathan Kiwere—presenting heartfelt testimonies from Katende’s students.
Robert’s life illuminates a situation many will find difficult to imagine. However, his life will inspire you to achieve great things against insurmountable obstacles.
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“The author’s smooth-flowing prose is laced with poignant details…A quick, inspirational story of overcoming adversity.”
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Kirkus Reviews
About Robert Katende
Robert Katende and his wife Sarah have three daughters, Mercy, Hope, and Queen. Robert is an engineer by profession specializing in civil, IT, and computer engineering. He grew up in the Slums of Kampala in Uganda, but miraculously worked his way to the university and escaped the vicious cycle of the slum life.
Robert lives in Kampala Uganda and is currently working with Sports Outreach. Robert chose to use chess as a tool to nature, mentor, and disciple people, especially vulnerable children living on streets and in slums. He uses sports as a way to encourage, inspire, and better their lives. He is the director of Sports Outreach in Uganda; an organization whose headquarters are in Lynchburg Virginia.
Robert initiated and conducts chess programs in the slums of Kampala as well as in Gulu; the Northern part of Uganda that was severely shattered by Kony and the LRA rebels.
These programs have nurtured and given opportunities to street children the likes of Phiona Mutesi who has become the first Woman Candidate Master in the history of Uganda.
About Albert Mensah
Albert Mensah, author and award-winning speaker, was born in Ghana, Africa. When Albert was eight years young he saw an American movie and witnessed the fantastic opportunities in America. Getting to America became his dream, his passion, and his goal. In 1978 his dream came true when Albert won a full scholarship to Western Maryland College, and in the twenty-four years since he has reached the highest levels of personal and professional success.