In the bustling heart of London, a new initiative has taken root— one that seeks to cultivate not just the love of chess, but also the empowerment of women and juniors through this timeless game. Our newly established chess club is more than just a place to play; it’s a community where strategy, creativity, and camaraderie unite to inspire the next generation of chess enthusiasts.
The Vision Behind the Club
The idea of forming this club stemmed from a simple observation: while chess is universally enjoyed, women and young players are often under-represented in traditional chess environments. Recognising the need for a space that specifically caters to these groups, I established a club that would foster its members' skills and confidence in an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
Our club aims to break down barriers and make chess accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience level. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your skills, our doors are open.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
One of our core principles is creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. We believe that ‘Chess is for All’, and our club is here to make sure that ‘women, especially, can enjoy the game without feeling intimidated by the opposite gender’. It should be an enjoyable experience; to that end, we’ve structured our sessions to cater to a wide range of abilities. Our club meetings are divided into two segments: one focused on training and skill development, and the other dedicated to friendly, informal games.
Our coaching team, comprising experienced players and educators, is exceptionally skilled in working with juniors. They use engaging, age-appropriate methods to teach the fundamentals of chess, ensuring that young players develop a strong foundation while having fun. The club provides a unique space for our women members to engage with peers who share a passion for chess, away from the often-intimidating environments of larger, mixed-gender clubs.
‘We’re not just teaching chess—we’re creating a community where women can feel empowered, and juniors can grow confidently.’
Beyond the Chessboard
While the game is central to our activities, the club is committed to fostering personal growth and community spirit. We regularly host events such as guest lectures from top female chess players, strategy workshops, and tournaments designed to build skill, confidence, and interactions with other clubs. These events not only provide valuable learning opportunities but also encourage social interaction and the formation of friendships that extend beyond the chessboard.
Moreover, our club actively participates in the London Chess League and 4NCL national competitions, allowing our members to challenge themselves in a competitive setting. These experiences are invaluable, particularly for juniors, as they learn to handle victory and defeat gracefully.
Looking to the Future
The response to our club has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited about the future. As we continue to grow, we plan to expand our activities, including outreach programmes to local schools and community centres.
‘We aim to introduce more young people and women to chess, highlighting its benefits for cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and confidence-building.’
We are also exploring partnerships with other chess organisations in London to create a club network that supports diversity and inclusion in chess. By working together, we can make a stronger, more vibrant chess community that reflects the diversity of our city.
Join Us
If you’re a woman or junior living in London with an interest in chess, we invite you to join our club. Whether you want to learn the basics, compete in tournaments, or enjoy a game with friends, you’ll find a welcoming community here. Together we can enjoy the richness of chess, while breaking down barriers and making the game accessible to all.
For more information, please visit our website or drop by during one of our sessions. We look forward to welcoming you to our chess family!
Zoya Boozorginia, Chairperson of London Women Chess Club
Tel: 07951161101
Web: www.londonwomenchess.org.uk #londonwomenchessclub