Shreeya Mahadeo shines at the inaugural KZN Chess Awards
IN CELEBRATION of chess talent, the inaugural KZN Chess Awards 2025 held on Saturday in Durban recognised the region’s finest players, with 15-year-old Shreeya Mahadeo taking centre stage as the Junior Female Player of the Year.
The awards evening at Arboretum Primary School, which gathered top chess talents from across KwaZulu-Natal, acknowledged the hard work and achievements of its nominees.
Shreeya, a Grade 10 pupil at Durban Girls’ College, was a force to be reckoned with, having been nominated in two additional categories – Women Player of the Year and Girl Player of the Year.
“Being nominated for any award is a fantastic feeling, but to be nominated for three is truly special. I am proud and humbled to be in the company of such talented players in KwaZulu-Natal,” she said this week.
The young chess prodigy, who began her journey in the game at age seven, continues to be a dominant presence within her age group across the province.
“Winning any chess competition or tournament takes a lot of effort and skill,” Shreeya said, reflecting on the balancing act of managing demanding chess practices alongside her studies.
“I am extremely disciplined and dedicated. I put in a huge amount of time training and practising. Weekends are set aside for tournaments.”
Her aspirations are not limited to regional recognition. She dreams of representing South Africa at international events, including the World Chess Olympiad.
Her commitment to excellence was underscored when she received the National Chess SA title of Woman Regional Master (WRM) in June.
“Winning during Women’s Month is significant to me,” she added.
“This month is a powerful tribute to the courage and strength of women who fought for a more just and equal society. I am honoured, humbled, and grateful to be recognised for my achievements, especially as a young female chess player.”
Shreeya said her journey had been paved with challenges, yet she stood ready to inspire others.
“I have come a long way with many challenges and obstacles along the way, and the message I have for other young girls is that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.”
She said she was grateful to her family, particularly her parents, who have been unwavering pillars of support throughout her chess journey.
“My parents have been through many challenges alongside me. I do not know where I would be without them.”
Shreeya will compete in the Mzansi Inter-Provincial Youth Chess Championships in Eastern Cape in December and the South African Junior Closed Chess Championships in March next year.
She wants to study computer and software engineering at the University of Cape Town.