Uplifting News? by Reagan Rech

There are too many sad, tragic news stories and not enough uplifting one's. Unfortunately that's just the world that we live in. However, this story of an 8 year old homeless boy is sure to warm your heart. Tanitoluwa Adewumi, or Tani, is a Nigerian refugee who lives in a homeless shelter with his family. His family fled Nigeria in 2017, fearing Boko Haram terrorists. Since they arrived, Tani was enrolled in school and started learning how to play chess. He found a passion for the game, but feared he wouldn't be able to join the chess club because he wouldn't be able to pay the fees. His mother emailed the club and the fees were waived due to his circumstances. As a result, a little over a year ago Tani was able to take part in his first chess tournament. He entered with the lowest rating of 105. Now his rating is 1587 and it's rapidly increasing. The world's highest rating is currently 2882 held by Magnus Carlsen. Tani recently won the New York state chess tournament. He has dreams of being the worlds "youngest grandmaster." He is currently preparing for the Elementary National Championship in May. He has ambition and high hopes despite his situation. This young boy is a fantastic example that you can do anything you set your mind to and money isn't everything.