The Chess4Peace initiative, a special project launched by FIDE and the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess, with generous support from the International Olympic Committee, stands as a powerful testament to the importance of social projects.
Chess4Peace pilot initiative focuses on young women from Ukraine, designed to introduce them to the world of chess, aims to unlock new avenues for personal growth, career opportunities, and self-discovery, particularly in roles within the chess community for non-professional players. It is about showing job potential and job can be a chance for a brighter future.
The project commenced in November of last year with an inaugural meeting in Warsaw, followed by online workshops and a subsequent gathering in May. Participants also had the unique opportunity to visit a Grand Chess Tour venue, where they met some of the world’s best players, including Magnus Carlsen.
The project culminated at the Chess Olympiad, where participants were invited to our conference, “WOMEN & CHESS & BALANCE.” Here, they contributed to the organization and shared presentations detailing their journeys and the transformative effects of the project on their lives.
Results of the Chess4Peace initiative
The heartfelt testimonies from the participants underscored the significance of this initiative, as they expressed how it became a pivotal moment in their lives, instilling confidence and equipping them with skills to enhance their futures. From pursuing careers as chess photographers and establishing chess schools to opening a chess café featuring healthy treats for children and engaging in social media content creation, these young women have not only conceived ambitious ideas but have also begun to take tangible steps toward realizing them.
The results of the project shine once more as one of the participant, Anastasia Osadchuk, participated in u1700 Amateur World Championships among women and claimed victory in the event, after scoring a fantastic 8/9. Of course it is due to Anastasia’s incredible strength of spirit as well as hard work, but she herself mentioned that participation in theChess4Peace project filled her with a belief that she can be a part of the chess world, have her confidence and showed how much the chess world really has to offer even if you are not on a grandmaster level.
We also wish to highlight the noteworthy presence of Chief Arbiter Efstathia Andrikopoulou at the event, a former Amateur World Champion herself. Her role is significant, as female Chief Arbiters remain underrepresented in chess events. The increasing visibility of women in such positions is a testament to the hard work and dedication of female arbiters, which aligns closely with the mission of the Chess4Peace project and importance of expanding possibilities for women in the chess community through greater representation.
Team behind the poject
Led by Anastasia Sorokina of Australia, who is also the Chairman of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess, and in partnership with the Polish Chess Federation, the Chess4Peace project exemplifies the power of solidarity and the resilience of the human spirit.
Our success in the Chess4Peace project has been made possible through the dedication and expertise of an incredible team.
Special thanks go to GM Natalia Zhukova, our patron, whose exemplary character has been a guiding force not only for success on the chessboard but, more importantly, beyond it. We are also grateful for the invaluable contributions of WGM Anastasiya Karlovich, an inspiring figure in the chess world and the recent recipient of the FIDE100 award as Best Photographer of the Century, as well as a globally respected commentator. GM Volodymyr Baklan’s skill as a coach and his calm mentorship have been pivotal in guiding our girls through the complex landscape of chess with grace and assurance. Our gratitude extends to Natalia Ryzhenko, whose expertise in personal branding and psychological insight brought unique warmth and support to this initiative.
We are very grateful for the powerful workshops led by Franck Droin, a specialist in social work, whose sessions gave the girls clear insights into the demands and commitments involved in working on major projects. Denis Burko’s lectures on history and photography further highlighted the role of creativity in collaborating with others, inspiring the team with new perspectives.
We are especially thankful to Dana Reizniece-Ozola, FIDE Managing Director, whose unwavering support from the project’s inception has been instrumental. Her presence at every critical milestone and her embodiment of dedication and character have been a constant reminder to girls that almost anything is possible.
This initiative serves as a vivid reminder that every move matters, every decision counts, and that even in the face of adversity, a supportive community is ready to uplift and advocate for a brighter future. Chess4Peace is not just a project; it is a journey of hope, empowerment, and shared triumph.
