Robert Katende, named an African Ambassador to the Obama Foundation and voted the most influential man in Uganda by New Hope Newspaper.

Once too poor to afford the rat poison with which he planned to take his own life, Robert’s legacy tells an astonishing true story of resilience and hope. His work was made famous in the Disney movie Queen of Katwe, a biographical drama about a 13-year-old girl who became a Uganda National Chess Champion under Robert’s mentorship. Now readers will get a first-hand account of how it all started, and the life of the man behind Phiona Mutesi’s world-renown accomplishments.

The story, presented in two parts, first from Robert—war refugee turned missionary living the improbable dream to empower kids in Ugandan slums through chess—a game so foreign there is no word for it in their native language. You’ll ride along the deep valleys and high mountaintops of Robert’s childhood as he beats impossibilities that would have likely crushed most anyone else. The story, presented in two parts—first from war refugee turned missionary living the improbable dream to empower kids in Ugandan slums through chess—a game so foreign there is no word for it in their native language. Then by debut author Nathan Kiwere—presenting heartfelt testimonies from Katende’s students.

Robert’s life illuminates a situation many will find difficult to imagine. However, his life will inspire you to achieve great things against insurmountable obstacles.