‘A Gem’: Lupita Nyong’o Celebrates Queen of Katwe at 10

A decade after Queen of Katwe brought the inspiring story of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi to the big screen, Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o is looking back on the film with fond memories.

Nyong’o, who played Harriet Mutesi, Phiona’s mother, paid tribute to the Ugandan actors and filmmakers she worked with on the Disney production as the film marked its 10th anniversary.

Describing the movie as a “gem”, Nyong’o said making Queen of Katwe in Africa remains one of her most treasured film experiences. “The film was feel-good on and off-screen,” she wrote in an anniversary message this week.

She specifically celebrated Ugandan actress Madina Nalwanga, who made her major film debut playing Phiona, and Martin Kabanza, who portrayed Phiona’s brother, Brian.

British-Nigerian actor David Oyelowo also starred in the film as chess coach Robert Katende, whose mentorship helped Phiona navigate her remarkable journey from Katwe to the international chess stage.

For Nyong’o, however, the memories extend beyond the cameras and the finished film.

She recalled working with acclaimed director Mira Nair and the bond she formed with Nalwanga during production.

The actress also revealed that Queen of Katwe introduced her to Zohran Mamdani, who worked on the production as an assistant director and music supervisor. Their time on the film, she said, marked the beginning of their friendship.

Mamdani later went on to become the mayor of New York City.

Released in September 2016, Queen of Katwe tells the true-life story of Mutesi, a girl from Katwe, Kampala, whose extraordinary talent for chess opened doors to international competition and a life far beyond the hardships of her neighbourhood.

Directed by Mira Nair and written by William Wheeler, the Disney biographical sports drama put Ugandan talent firmly in the international spotlight—and, 10 years later, its stars are still celebrating the memories it created.