Durban teen Shreeya Mahadeo aims for glory at the Commonwealth Chess Championship

At just 15 years old, Durban’s Shreeya Mahadeo has already achieved what many players spend decades pursuing, a provincial title, a national ranking, and now, the opportunity to compete internationally.

The Malvern, Queensburgh teen is preparing to represent South Africa at the Commonwealth Chess Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 8–17,  a major milestone in a journey that began when she picked up her first chess piece seven years ago.

Since learning the game in 2018, Shreeya has risen to become one of KwaZulu-Natal’s top female players in her age group. In June this year, she was awarded the Woman Regional Master (WRM) title by Chess South Africa, recognising her growing dominance in the sport. Just two months later, she was crowned Junior Female Player of the Year at the inaugural KZN Chess Awards.

Now, she is set to fly the South African flag abroad, but she needs help to get there. Her family has launched a BackaBuddy campaign to raise R80,190 to cover the costs of flights, accommodation, tournament entry, and related expenses for her to compete in Malaysia.

Her parents said in a statement that Shreeya is an inspiration and “the most determined person we know”.

Her parents describe her journey as one built on teamwork and persistence. “Being her parent means being her biggest supporter, her chauffeur to countless weekend tournaments, and her sounding board after both triumphs and tough losses,” they stated.

For Shreeya, mindset matters as much as skill. “My hard work, dedication, and consistency are the driving force behind my success,” she said.

“Your biggest fear and opponent will always be looking back at you in the mirror.”

That focus helped her claim multiple milestones in 2025, including her WRM title and provincial awards. “I was shocked and humbled to receive nominations in all three categories,” she said. “Winning confirmed that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.”

But her journey has also come with challenges. Earlier this year, she qualified for both the World Youth Rapid & Blitz Championships in Greece and the African Schools Championships in Kenya but could not attend either due to financial constraints. 

This time, the family is determined to ensure she does not miss the opportunity. “Representing South Africa means standing on the world stage and saying that our players especially young women are a force to be reckoned with,” Shreeya said.

“I want to raise the flag high for my family, school, and community and make them proud.”

The Grade 10 learner, Shreeya balances her chess training with academics, art, marimba, photography, and squash, and she dedicates her community service hours to causes such as Paw Prints Rescue and Rehoming and Highway Hospice.

“These experiences have reaffirmed that as young females we are empowered to make a difference in our communities,” she said.

Her mother, Sash Mahadeo , will travel with her to Malaysia as guardian. “A chess tournament is like a marathon, not a sprint,” Shreeya said. “My mum is my backbone and cheering squad  she keeps me fed, hydrated, and rested.”

Her BackaBuddy campaign can be found here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/commonwealth-chess-shreeyas-journey-to-malaysia

THE MERCURY