In an inspiring feature for the digital issue of SIMPLE MAGAZINE, Record-breaking Nigeria’s youngest women’s chess champion, Deborah DebbyQuick as she is fondly called within the chess community for her quick thinking prowess, shares her remarkable journey from a curious child to a chess prodigy.
Deborah Quickpen’s journey in chess began when she was just six years old. In the interview, she reminisces about how her father introduced her to the game. “I remember watching my dad play and being fascinated by the pieces and the board. It was like a whole new world to me,” she recalls with a smile. Her father, recognizing her curiosity, taught her the basics of the game, and soon, Deborah was hooked.
“It was intimidating at first,” she admits, “but I learned to stay focused and trust my training.” This perseverance paid off in 2021 when, at just 11 years old, she won the Nigerian Women’s Chess Championship, making her the youngest champion in the country’s history.
Deborah’s success is not just due to her natural talent but also her rigorous training regimen. She speaks passionately about her daily practice sessions, which include solving complex chess puzzles and playing online matches against international opponents. “Chess is a game of strategy and patience,” she explains. “Every move counts, and you have to be able to think several steps ahead.”
Despite her young age, Deborah displays a maturity beyond her years, both in her game and her outlook on life. She emphasizes the importance of discipline and hard work, values instilled in her by her parents. “My parents have always supported me, but they also made sure I understood that success requires dedication,” she says. Her mother, in particular, plays a significant role in balancing Deborah’s chess career with her education, ensuring she remains focused on her studies.
In the interview, Deborah also touches on the challenges she has faced as a young female chess player in Nigeria. “Chess is often seen as a male-dominated sport, and there were times when I felt underestimated,” she reveals. However, these experiences have only fueled her determination to break barriers and inspire other young girls to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations.
One of the highlights of the feature is Deborah’s reflection on her future goals. With a sparkle in her eye, she talks about her dream of becoming a Grandmaster, the highest title in chess. “It’s a long journey, but I’m ready for it,” she says confidently. She also expresses a desire to represent Nigeria on the global stage, bringing more attention to the talent and potential within her country. DebbyQuick represented Nigeria this summer in Batumi, Georgia at the FIDE Chess World Cup 2024 (The 3rd Biggest Chess Event in the world after the World Championship and the Candidates Tournament) fully sponsored by international property management company Daniel Ford International.
Deborah’s cover shoot for SIMPLE MAGAZINE captures her essence perfectly. The images shot by Rayo Kasali who also interviewed her for the exclusive show a young girl who is not only a fierce competitor but also a poised and elegant individual.
The article concludes with Deborah’s message to her peers: “Believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams. Chess has taught me that every setback is just an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay focused, stay passionate, and success will follow.”
Deborah Quickpen’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and unwavering support from family and community. As she continues to make waves in the chess world, she remains a shining example of the power of youth and the limitless potential within each of us. The June issue of SIMPLE MAGAZINE not only celebrates her achievements but also inspires readers to pursue their own paths with the same vigour and determination that Deborah embodies.
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