In the vast and challenging environment of Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, a remarkable event unfolded on Saturday, June 28th. Over 330 young girls gathered not just for a game, but for a powerful demonstration of empowerment, resilience, and community, centered around the strategic squares of a chess board.
This day marked a significant moment for the Girls Club, an initiative under the broader FIDE Chess for Protection project, run in collaboration with UNHCR. For months, the club has provided a vital online connection for these girls, offering weekly chess training and motivational sessions with international coaches and local tutors. It`s a program designed not just to teach chess tactics, but to instill confidence, structure, and a sense of connection to a wider world.
Bringing the Virtual to Life
While online interaction is invaluable, there`s a unique energy that only an in-person event can generate. Organizing such a gathering within a refugee camp presents considerable logistical hurdles – access, coordination, permissions – requiring meticulous planning and robust local partnerships. Yet, the sheer impact of showing up, of being physically present, sends an undeniable message: `You are seen, you are valued, and we are here for you.`
The response from the girls was nothing short of incredible. Over 330 participants from various schools across the camp turned out, creating a vibrant scene that deeply affected everyone involved. It was a testament to the hunger for engagement, learning, and positive interaction.
Rising Like Queens: Lessons Beyond the Board
A central highlight of the day was an inspiring motivational talk delivered by Phylis Ngigi, Director of The Gift of Chess. Traveling to Kakuma for the event, Phylis presented her address titled “Rising Like Queens: Life Lessons Through Chess.” Drawing on personal experiences, she skillfully used each chess piece as a metaphor for navigating life`s challenges and seizing opportunities. It was a powerful narrative woven with themes of perseverance and hope.
Here`s how she connected the pieces to life:
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The Pawn – Small Steps, Big Dreams
The journey begins with a single move. Keep moving forward, and you have the potential to transform your circumstances.
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The Knight – Be Bold, Think Differently
Its unique, non-linear path shows that even when your route isn`t straightforward, you can find creative ways to reach your goals.
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The Bishop – Follow Your Purpose
Moving diagonally, always on the same color, symbolizes staying focused and committed to your chosen path, whatever challenges lie across the board.
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The Rook – Build Strength, Stand Firm
Its solid, straight movement represents building a strong foundation for yourself and being a steadfast support for others.
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The Queen – Power and Leadership
The most versatile piece embodies the immense power you possess to lead your own life, protect your vision, and ultimately, win.
Phylis`s message, delivered in such a relatable and symbolic way, clearly resonated with the young audience, offering practical wisdom wrapped in the familiar context of the game.
Tangible Support for Future Battles
Beyond the inspiration, the event also provided essential resources. Thanks to generous donations, the growing chess community in Kakuma received tangible support: 100 chess sets from The Gift of Chess and 100 digital chess clocks contributed by DGT. These aren`t just pieces of equipment; they are tools for practice, competition, and continued development. They were put to immediate use in a larger mass tournament planned for the following day, involving all participants in the Chess for Protection program.
This event, and the ongoing programs, represent more than just chess lessons. They are investments in the future, planting seeds of confidence, strategic thinking, and hope. The aspiration is clear: that with continued support and opportunities like these, the next Chess Olympiad could potentially feature members of the Refugee Team who took their very first steps towards the board right here in Kakuma.
The success of the Chess for Protection project is a testament to the effective collaboration between FIDE and UNHCR, demonstrating a shared commitment to inclusion and empowerment through the universal language of chess, uplifting the incredible people living in Kakuma.
