In a place where resilience is not just admired but essential, Kenya`s Kakuma Refugee Camp recently witnessed an extraordinary display of community and empowerment. On a special Saturday, over 330 young girls gathered, not for necessity, but for the strategic beauty and life lessons offered by the game of chess.
This remarkable turnout was a highlight for the `Girls Club,` an initiative spearheaded by the FIDE Commission for Women`s Chess. Typically connecting through weekly online sessions with international coaches and a local tutor, the club provides vital structure, confidence, and a bridge to the wider world through chess training. It`s a key part of FIDE`s `Chess for Protection` project, dedicated to bringing the game`s benefits to displaced communities.
Organizing such an event within the complex environment of a refugee camp presents unique challenges. Access, logistics, permissions – it`s a tapestry woven with careful planning and dedicated local support. Yet, the power of simply being there, in person, is undeniable. It’s a powerful, tangible message: `We see you. We care. And we are here, specifically, for you.`
The response, with more than 330 girls participating from various camp schools, spoke volumes about the hunger for such connection and inspiration.
Inspiration Across the Board: Life Lessons from Chess Pieces
A central pillar of the day was a motivational session delivered by Phylis Ngigi, Director of The Gift of Chess. Her talk, aptly titled `Rising Like Queens: Life Lessons Through Chess,` transformed the 64 squares into a metaphor for life`s journey. Speaking from a place of deep understanding, Phylis used each chess piece to weave a narrative of resilience and aspiration:
- The Pawn: Small steps lead to big changes. Transformation is possible, one move at a time.
- The Knight: Think outside the box, find your unique path even if it`s unconventional. Don`t be afraid to jump over obstacles.
- The Bishop: Stay focused on your purpose, move with conviction along your chosen path.
- The Rook: Build a strong foundation, stand firm, and be a source of strength for yourself and others.
- The Queen: Recognize your power to lead, protect, and succeed. You have immense potential.
Her message landed with profound effect, painting a picture of potential mirrored by the journey of a humble pawn aspiring to become the most powerful piece on the board.
Tangible Support and Future Vision
This growing community didn`t just receive inspiration; they received tangible tools. Thanks to the generosity of The Gift of Chess, 100 chess sets were donated. DGT added another layer of technical support with 100 digital chess clocks. These resources were immediately put to use, facilitating friendly matches during the event and preparing the girls for a larger mass tournament planned for the next day, involving all participants in the Chess for Protection program.
While a single day may seem fleeting, the hope it ignited is designed to last. With ongoing support, there`s a clear vision: that these very girls, honing their skills and confidence on donated boards and clocks, could one day represent the Refugee Team at a future Chess Olympiad. It`s a powerful aspiration born from the collaborative efforts of FIDE and UNHCR, who share a commitment to empowerment through chess for the people of Kakuma.
More than just a game, chess proved once again its capacity to be a catalyst for change, a provider of structure, and a profound source of inspiration, helping young girls in Kakuma stand tall, ready to rise like the queens they are.
