During the exciting days of Norway Chess in Oslo, the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess (WOM) organized two important initiatives aimed at supporting the development of women and girls in chess: the Queen Gathering 2026 workshop and a FIDE International Organizer (IO) Seminar. Together, these activities provided valuable opportunities for participants to learn, connect, and strengthen their involvement in chess both on and off the board.
Queen Gathering 2026: Inspiring the Next Generation
From May 29–31, the Queen Gathering 2026 brought together girls and women at Deichman Bjørvika in Oslo for a weekend dedicated to chess improvement, inspiration, and friendship.
The program combined intensive training sessions with a variety of engaging activities designed to showcase the many different paths available within the chess world. Participants enjoyed group training led by an experienced coaching team consisting of Emthe Skandfer Solskinnsbakk, WCM Oda Kofoed Skramstad, IM Joachim Nilsen, and WIM Sheila Barth Stanford.
Beyond chess training, attendees had the opportunity to learn from prominent figures in Norwegian chess. IM Jovanka Houska shared her passion for the game in a special session, while GM Aryan Tari officially kicked off the event. Participants also gained insights into chess media through a workshop on working with chess television led by WFM Maud Rødsmoen.
Interactive activities such as a chess quiz, a puzzle hunt, and group discussions helped create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where participants could exchange experiences and build lasting connections. The program concluded with a collective evaluation session, reflecting on a successful weekend of learning and community building.
The Queen Gathering reflects WOM’s commitment to creating spaces where girls and women can develop their chess skills, gain confidence, and become part of a strong international network of female players and chess enthusiasts. Thank you to Dronningbrigaden and Norwegian Chess Federation for organising the events with us, and a special thanks to Sara and Sofie!
FIDE International Organizer Seminar Expands Opportunities for Women in Chess Leadership
At the same time, the FIDE Women’s Commission, in cooperation with the Norwegian Chess Federation and under the auspices of the FIDE Events Commission (EVE), organized a FIDE International Organizer Seminar on May 30–31 in Oslo.
The seminar focused on training organizers of international chess events in accordance with FIDE regulations and standards. Participants received comprehensive instruction on the many aspects involved in planning and delivering successful chess competitions, while those who successfully passed the final examination earned an official EVE International Organizer norm certificate.
The seminar was led by experienced chess officials Anastasia Sorokina (AUS), IO, IA, FPE, FT, WIM, as the main lecturer, with Toms Kalnins (LAT), IO and IA, serving as assistant lecturer.
As part of the Women’s Commission’s ongoing efforts to encourage greater female participation in all areas of chess, the first ten registered women were offered free participation. This initiative reflects the Commission’s broader vision of supporting women not only as players, but also as organizers, arbiters, trainers, and leaders within the global chess community.
Building Pathways Across the Chess Ecosystem
Together, the Queen Gathering and the International Organizer Seminar demonstrated the importance of creating diverse opportunities for women and girls at every stage of their chess journey. Whether developing competitive skills, building confidence, exploring careers in chess media, or gaining qualifications to organize international events, participants were able to expand their knowledge and strengthen their connection to the chess community.
A special thank you goes to Norway Chess and to Benedicte Westre Skog, COO of Norway Chess and a member of our Commission, for generously providing entry tickets to Norway Chess for the seminar participants.
The opportunity to experience one of the world’s premier chess events firsthand was both inspiring and educational. Participants were able to observe the organization of a top-level international tournament from behind the scenes, gaining valuable insights into event management and best practices that will support their own development as future chess organizers.
We thank our partners and all the participants for being part of our events in Oslo!
