In a world filled with digital noise, a global initiative is using an ancient game to build something profound: human connection. The FIDE Infinite Chess Project is more than a chess program; it’s a catalyst for emotional growth, social skills, and stronger communities. Stories from partners across four continents—from South Africa to Taiwan, and from Latvia to local communities—reveal a powerful truth: chess is helping children and families thrive in remarkable ways.
For many, the journey begins with a shared hope. Jonathan Chen, founder of the Kindness on Board Foundation, describes how the program instantly builds trust. “Parents come to us believing chess can help their children,” he says. This shared belief turns the chessboard into a collaborative space for growth. The program’s success is spreading fast, with parents recommending it to friends, allowing new classes to form in just a few months.
A key to the project’s success is its robust support system for coaches, especially those working with new populations. In Latvia, coach Viesturs Kapce had no prior experience with autistic children before joining the initiative. “The knowledgeable representatives of FIDE Infinite were incredibly helpful and responsive,” he shares. “The webinars they organized were particularly valuable.” He also praised the project’s curriculum as “comprehensive and perfectly suited for the learning process,” highlighting the strong foundation it provides for coaches to succeed.
The most powerful stories come from parents and teachers who see daily changes. At The Browns’ School in South Africa, chess has become part of the culture, with older students choosing to play during their lunch breaks. Parents report clear, positive shifts in their children:
Better Focus & Planning: “Chess has helped Thapelo become more organised and focused,” says Mrs. Ngwenya. “He thinks before acting now.”
Stronger Resilience: Ms. McDonald noticed her son, who “used to give up easily,” now perseveres through challenges.
Growing Confidence: Parents are amazed by their children’s new strategic thinking and love for discussing the game. “She asks strategic questions that leave us amazed,” shares Ms. Zama.
The project’s transformative power is vividly clear in its work with autistic children, creating safe havens for growth from Taiwan to Latvia.
In Taiwan, the predictable rules of chess create a rare feeling of safety. The team’s tracking shows measurable progress: 58% better turn-taking and 42% more initiation of communication. One of the most touching observations says it all: “On the chessboard, many of our students speak their first voluntary words of the day.”
In Latvia, coach Viesturs Kapce witnessed a beautiful evolution in four boys. “I remember how anxious and shy the boys were during the first lesson,” he recalls. “Now, they have become much more independent.” After three years, two play independently, and one competes in school tournaments. But the deepest wins are social: “They no longer shy away from eye contact, and they even initiate a handshake themselves when the lesson ends.” For Kapce, the experience was transformative, helping him become “a better person and a better coach.”
For families, it’s a gift of pressure-free connection. “Chess gave us a way to communicate without pressure,” one parent in Taiwan explained. “My son showed me his thinking process for the first time—through the game.”
The impact ripples outward. Teenagers volunteering as coaches with the Kindness on Board Foundation develop empathy and leadership. Their request for more training shows how deeply they care, building a strong foundation for the program’s future.
From lively playground chats in South Africa to confident handshakes in Latvia, and quiet breakthroughs in Taiwan, the Infinite Chess Project is weaving a global story of hope. It’s not just about knights and pawns—it’s about building patience, strategic thinking, confidence, and community.
As Jonathan Chen puts it, “This is only the beginning of a long journey.” And with the powerful results already seen across the globe, it’s a journey that promises to change countless more lives, one move at a time.
Join the Movement via #InfiniteChess on social media. Support inclusive chess programs in your community.
