As part of FIDE’s 2025 Year of Social Chess, each month highlights a theme that shows how chess can contribute to positive change in society. This August, we celebrate Women in Chess — a global initiative led by the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess (WOM) to strengthen the women&girls community in the chess world, through the game.
The Women’s Chess Marathon features eight main events taking place across the continents, supported by the WOM Commission and organised in partnership with local federations and communities:
- Americas: Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic
- Africa: South Africa and Zambia
- Asia & Oceania: Nepal and Australia
- Europe: Portugal and Italy
While these eight events form the core of the Women’s Chess Marathon, we invite organisers everywhere to join the celebration by hosting events, sharing their stories, and tagging us on social media throughout August.
Spotlight on Australia: Honouring Women, Community, and Chess Across Generations
In Australia, the Women’s Chess Marathon will be celebrated with a series of inspiring activities at Lauriston Girls’ School, where a local chess club celebrates its 25th anniversary – how special!
The event is led by Leonid Sandler, a member of our Commission, an esteemed chess player, and a highly regarded coach dedicated to chess development and education.
August 12 – Interschool Girls’ Chess Tournament
More than 100 girls from Prep to Grade 12 will come together for this well-loved annual event – a celebration of participation, learning, and enthusiasm for chess among young players. All participants will receive FIDE Women’s Commission Certificates of Participation as part of the Women’s Chess Marathon.
August 19 – Lecture: A Personal Chess Journey
On August 19, students will hear from a special guest – a former World Juniors Championship representative who is now a mother of three daughters. Her oldest, Monica, is in Grade 3 and attends the school’s chess club. In this lecture, she will reflect on her experience in chess and how the game continues to shape her family life today.
August 21 – WGM Julia Ryjanova: Lecture and Simultaneous Exhibition
To mark 25 years of the Lauriston Girls’ School chess club, WGM Julia Ryjanova, one of Australia’s strongest female players, will visit the school to give a lecture and simultaneous exhibition. Her presence offers students the chance to learn directly from a top-level player and role model.
To celebrate the occasion, the school community is also planning a chess-themed cake – a sweet tribute to its long-standing commitment to chess education. We can’t wait to see the photo! 🙂
A Note of Thanks
These events reflect the vibrant energy and dedication of the Australian chess community to supporting girls and women in the game. We warmly thank Leonid Sandler, Lauriston Girls’ School, and all those involved for their continued leadership and creativity as part of the global Women’s Chess Marathon.
