How a Ugandan slum girl turned a chess board into a path out of poverty

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Phiona Mutesi’s life in a Kampala slum was defined by the daily struggle to sell maize and survive. Then, she discovered chess. Her journey from the streets of Katwe to international competition became a radical Disney film, challenging the studio's traditional narratives while capturing a story of uncommon resilience.

The 2016 biographical drama Queen of Katwe, directed by Mira Nair, chronicles the true story of Phiona Mutesi. Living in the Katwe slum of Kampala, Uganda, Mutesi’s life was transformed after she encountered Robert Katende, a missionary coach who taught local children to play chess. Despite initial opposition from local authorities, Mutesi’s talent quickly propelled her to national prominence, eventually leading her to represent Uganda at the Chess Olympiad in Russia.

The production process was as unconventional as the story itself. Disney greenlit the $15 million project in January 2015, with Mira Nair aiming to expand the scope of what a traditional Disney sports film could be. Casting was a rigorous endeavor; the production team auditioned nearly 700 girls before discovering Madina Nalwanga, a 15-year-old dancer, to play Mutesi. The film was shot on location in Katwe and Johannesburg, employing over 100 local extras, many of whom had never worked with cameras before.

The film’s authenticity was bolstered by a score from Alex Heffes and the inclusion of local Ugandan music, such as the track #1 Spice by Zohran Kwame Mamdani and the rapper HAB. While the film depicts the harsh realities of life in Katwe, it also highlights the aspirational nature of Mutesi’s journey. Though she faced setbacks in international competition, the film concludes with her ultimate success, providing her the means to purchase a home for her family. Critics praised the performances of Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo, and the film holds a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its impact as a rare, grounded sports drama.

Beyond its critical reception, the production had a tangible impact on the local economy, reportedly injecting 29.5 million Ugandan Shillings into Kampala and creating employment for 400 people. By blending the beauty and barbarity of her environment, Nair created a film that, while fitting into the underdog sports genre, remains distinct for its commitment to the specific, lived experience of its subjects.

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