Don’t miss Queen of Katwe in Theaters September 30th!
Disney has released photos of Phiona Mutesi and her coach Robert Katende with the mirror images of the actors who play them on screen, Madina Nalwanga and David Oyelowo in the new movie QUEEN OF KATWE as well as a new TV Spot highlighting the improbable journey to become a champion.
You will love these amazing images- how often do we get to see the real life inspirations for a movie?
Madina Nalwanga (right) as Phiona Mutesi
Phiona Mutesi (right, green shirt), Robert Katende (back row center)
Robert Katende was a recent college graduate and soccer coach for Sports Outreach Ministry who ran a chess program for impoverished children in the slums of Kampala when he first met Phiona Mutesi. As Phiona’s coach, mentor and father figure, Katende was instrumental in helping her pursue her dreams and become the champion she was destined to be. Today he is married with three children and houses several of his chess students while simultaneously serving as the director of Sports Outreach in Kampala and running 300 chess programs throughout Uganda.
The film also stars Lupita Nyong’o and is directed by Mira Nair. QUEEN OF KATWE is based on the vibrant true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda who is introduced to the game of chess by Robert Katende, a former missionary and soccer coach, and goes on to become an international chess champion.
“Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.
Robert’s chess program in a makeshift Agape Church in Katwe. Two years later she became Uganda’s junior
chess champion and eventually, the national champion. Then in 2012 at the age of 16 at her second Olympiad,
she became a Woman Candidate Master, the first step towards Grand Master. Earlier this year Phiona graduated
from St. Mbuga Vocational Secondary School. She is now applying to college and hopes to become a doctor or
lawyer.
Madina Nalwanga
Phiona Mutesi
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Let us know what you think about the Real Life Inspriations from the movie in the comments below- let me warn you, tissues are needed when you see Queen of Katwe!!
