Beginner development
Learn the fundamentals, piece movement, basic tactics and opening principles.
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The team behind the boardBuilt around
Built around
the game.
Coaches, organisers and support staff creating a stronger chess journey for every player.
Work with the team Already a member? Request a sessionFind your levelA path for every
A path for every
player.
Our goal is simple: create a learning environment where players can build skill and self-belief at the same time.
The people behind the boardMeet the
Meet the
team.
Experienced, passionate people helping players find their next best move—and making the club run smoothly behind the scenes.
Khothatso Teddy Makoro
Head Coach & Founder
Khothatso Makoro ? Founder & Director, Rise and Shine Chess Club Khothatso Makoro is the founder of Rise and Shine Chess Club, an organisation dedicated to using chess as a tool for youth development, education, discipline, and community building. Khothatso is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to learn and develop through chess. Under his leadership, Rise and Shine Chess Club has focused on chess training, tournaments, school programmes, youth development, and community activities, while encouraging young players to develop critical thinking, discipline, confidence, leadership, and problem-solving skills. As founder, Khothatso is involved in coordinating the club's programmes, tournaments, partnerships, sponsorship initiatives, player development, and community outreach. He also works to create opportunities for young players to participate in competitive chess and grow within the sport.
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Nelly Manyashi
Vice president
Nelly Manyashi serves as the Vice President of Rise and Shine Chess Club, a community-based chess organization dedicated to developing young minds through the game of chess. Based in Mamelodi, the club works to promote critical thinking, discipline, and educational growth among young players.
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Ephraim Mapoe Selepe
Assistant Coach & Head of Development
Ephraim specializes in tactical training and opening theory, helping intermediate players sharpen their skills and prepare for tournaments.
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Glen Matlala
Assistant Coach
Glen focuses on working with our youngest members, making chess fun and accessible while building a solid foundation for future growth.
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Bonny
PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA
Bonny is the official photographer for Rise and Shine Chess Club, capturing the spirit, energy, and memorable moments of the club's tournaments, training sessions, and community events. Through creative photography, Bonny documents the journey of young chess players as they develop their skills, confidence, and passion for the game.
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Portia Mashigoana
Club manager
Portia Mashigoana serves as the Club Manager and Administrator of Rise and Shine Chess Club. She is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the club, coordinating programs, managing communications, and ensuring that all activities run smoothly. With strong organizational and leadership skills, she plays a key role in supporting the club's mission to develop young talent, promote chess in the community, and create opportunities for growth and learning. Her dedication helps maintain a structured and welcoming environment for all members.
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Mr Ishly
Marketing
Mr Ishly serves as the Marketing Coordinator for Rise and Shine Chess Club. He is responsible for promoting the club's activities, events, and programs within the community. His role includes managing outreach initiatives, building partnerships, increasing visibility, and attracting new members and supporters. Through creative marketing strategies and strong communication, Ishly helps grow the club's presence and ensures that more people become aware of the opportunities offered by Rise and Shine Chess Club.
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Olerato Mauwane
Website Developer & Head of IT
Olerato Mauwane is the Website Developer and Head of IT at Rise and Shine Chess Club. Olerato strengthens the club's digital presence and helps ensure that technology supports its programmes, communication, and growth. With a background in information technology and programming, Olerato brings technical knowledge and creativity to the organisation. In this role, Olerato maintains and improves the club's website, presenting tournament information, chess programmes, announcements, and club activities in a clear, professional, and accessible way. Olerato also supports digital communications, online registration systems, and other technology initiatives that help the club operate more efficiently and remain accessible to young players and the wider community.
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