Chess for
All
We bring chess to underserved communities across Africa, using it as a tool for education, discipline, and opportunity.
Beneficiaries
Communities
Donors
Years of Impact
Empowering Youth Through the Royal Game
We bring chess to under-served communities across Africa— free equipment, community programs,school programs, scholarships, and mentorship for the youth.
Learn About Our Mission7 Programs, One Goal
From free chess equipment, community and school programs to scholarships, mentorship, community hubs, and tournaments — we build a complete support system for every youth.
Voices From Our Community
Real stories from the children, families, and communities transformed by chess. 3 stories and counting.
Community Hub Spotlight: Nima Chess Centre
In the heart of Nima, one of Accra's most densely populated neighbourhoods, an unlikely transformation is taking place. A small community centre room has become a beacon of hope — the Nima Chess Centre. Every afternoon, dozens of children pour through the doors, swap their school bags for chess boards, and enter a world of strategy, competition, and friendship. "Before the chess centre, these kids had nowhere safe to go after school," says community leader Hajia Fatima. "Now they have a purpose. Parents know their children are learning, growing, and staying out of trouble." The centre hosts weekend tournaments, holiday camps, and even family game nights. It has become a gathering point for the entire community. "Chess doesn't see your background," says 12-year-old Malik, a regular at the centre. "On the board, everyone is equal. That's what I love about it."
The Asantewaa School Chess Revolution
When teacher Mr. Osei introduced the PiChess Foundation's school program at Asantewaa Basic School, he expected mild interest. What he got was a revolution. "Every Friday is now chess day," he says, beaming. "The students count down the days. Attendance on Fridays went up by 30%." The program, which provides free chess sets, coaching, and weekly sessions, has transformed the school's culture. Disciplinary issues dropped. Test scores improved. And the school chess team — barely a year old — won their district championship. "Chess teaches them things we struggle to teach in the classroom: patience, strategic thinking, dealing with failure gracefully," Mr. Osei explains. "It's the best thing that's happened to this school in my 15 years here." The PiChess Foundation now works with over 45 schools across Ghana, and Asantewaa remains one of their proudest success stories.
Adjoa's Scholarship Dream Became Reality
Growing up in Tamale in the Northern Region, 16-year-old Adjoa never imagined she'd play chess competitively. Girls in her community rarely played sports, let alone a game many considered "for boys." But when the PiChess Foundation opened a hub at her local community centre, Adjoa was curious. Within weeks, she was hooked. "The boys underestimated me," she laughs. "That made me want to win even more." Adjoa's determination caught the eye of our coaches. She received a full scholarship to the PiChess Academy and became the first girl from her community to compete at a national chess tournament. "The scholarship changed my entire future. I never imagined this was possible," she says. "Now younger girls in my community come to watch me play. They see that chess is for everyone." Adjoa now mentors three younger girls through our mentorship program, passing forward the opportunity she was given.