As part of our global initiative Chess Women’s Day Celebration 2026: Visible, Connected, Worldwide, inspiring events continued to take place across continents throughout the month of March – each one contributing to a shared vision of greater inclusion, visibility, and connection for women and girls in chess.
One such meaningful contribution came from Chattogram, Bangladesh, where Chesscode Academy organized the Chesscode Independence Day Standard Rating Chess Tournament from 26–28 March 2026.
The 5-round tournament brought together 38 participants, including 5 female players, in a competitive yet welcoming environment. While the number of women players may seem modest, in many chess communities even a small presence of girls and women represents real progress.
Each participant adds visibility, encourages other girls and women to follow their example, and helps build a more inclusive future for the game. We can not wait to see how this progress continues – and brings more female players to the next events.
The event celebrated both sporting excellence and community spirit, with S. M. Tarek claiming the top prize. Special recognition was given to Tasfia Tahsin Prima as the Best Female Player, while Anushka Dutta was awarded Best U-12 Player.
Beyond the tournament itself, the organizers took a thoughtful step in highlighting the role of women in chess by honoring three individuals who have made significant contributions to the game in Chattogram. WFM Tanima Parveen was recognized for her excellence in chess, Shaila Mahmud for her dedication to organizing and developing chess locally, and WCM Omnia Binte Yusuf Lubaba as a promising young talent representing the future of the sport.
These efforts reflect the essence of this year’s global theme – ensuring that women in chess are not only present, but seen, supported, and connected. By combining competition with recognition and community appreciation, the event in Bangladesh stands as a strong example of how local initiatives can contribute to a wider, worldwide movement.
Across March, similar stories have emerged from different parts of the world – each unique, yet united in purpose. Together, they form a powerful reminder that meaningful change in chess grows through collective action, dedication, and the willingness to create opportunities at every level.
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess warmly acknowledges Chesscode Academy for their initiative and looks forward to continued collaboration in supporting women and girls in chess – locally and globally.
