QUEEN OF KATWE is the inspiring true story of missionary Robert Katende and Phiona Mutesi. Their story is the focus of Disney?s upcoming feature which stars Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong?o and Golden Globe nominee David Oyelowo. Robert and Phiona?s story highlights the importance and joy of Christian missionary work and outreach. Above all, their story proves that heroism is in each one of us ? we all have the ability to touch, to inspire, and to impact the children of our communities. Phiona was a young girl living on the streets of Katwe, Uganda. She stumbled across an outreach ministry that motivated children like herself, and used chess to encourage them with the idea that ?What matters is when you reset the pieces and play again.? Phiona came in for free porridge, but found a community and a mentor in Robert Katende.
Eventually, Phiona found herself winning local chess matches. She now competes internationally, and thanks to the Sports Outreach Institute Missionary Program, she is also in school to become a pediatrician with the goal of opening a free clinic in Katwe to help others. Robert Katende a missionary and refugee of Uganda’s civil war, continues to mentor children in Katwe and teach chess.
Disney has also provided us with a link to an exclusive featurette in support of the film, focusing on Robert’s unrelenting faith, mission to help and commitment to make others’ lives better due to his faith and devotion to God! ?You can watch that clip here.
QUEEN OF KATWE opens in theaters September 23rd.
