FIDE Delegation applauds Jamaica Chess Federation for leadership in social impact through chess
Kingston, Jamaica – May 20, 2025 — A high-level delegation from FIDE concluded a successful visit to Jamaica from May 17–19, commending the Jamaica Chess Federation (JCF) for its groundbreaking social chess initiatives and longstanding leadership in the Caribbean region. Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, was welcomed to the region by CCA President José Carrillo and CCA Vice President Francisco Cruz. The delegation met with JCF President Peter Myers and key members of the Council, including IM Jomo Pitterson, Maxine Brown, Richard Shaw, Ian Wilkinson KC, and WIM Deborah Richards-Porter. Meetings were also held with Jamaica Olympic and Paralympic Association President Christopher Samuda, representatives from the Department of Correctional Services, and leaders of the Jamaica Society for the Blind. Meeting and demonstration at the Society of the Blind During the visit, the delegation observed the federation’s impactful community outreach programs, including its initiatives in correctional facilities and work with the visually impaired. “The trip to Jamaica was amazing! The federation is powered by people who are not just passionate about chess, but about using it to change lives. Truly a golden team,” said Dana Reizniece. “In this Year of Social Chess, Jamaica’s work with the blind and incarcerated communities exemplifies the very heart of our mission, to make chess accessible and impactful for all.” JCF President Peter Myers expressed gratitude for the visit, noting, “This was a moment to show that chess in Jamaica is more than competition, it’s a tool for transformation. We are committed to expanding access to all communities and deeply appreciate FIDE and CCA’s support.” CCA President Jose Carrillo added, “Jamaica has a rich history of leadership in chess across the Caribbean, and they continue to set the bar in 2025 for FIDE’s Year of Social Chess. The federation’s dedication to inclusion and innovation serves as an inspiration for the entire region. What we’ve witnessed here is a living model of how chess can change lives.” Fransisco Cruz (CCA VP), Jose Carrillo (CCA President) and Dana meeting with the Jamaican Chess Federation As a key outcome of the trip, CCA Vice President Francisco Cruz will return to Jamaica in June to lead a School Instructor Seminar and continue engaging with the JCF’s social initiatives as part of his work with the FIDE Diversity Commission. The delegation departed with renewed inspiration and a commitment to spotlight Jamaica’s efforts as a blueprint for socially impactful chess development.
First Continental-America workshop for Chess for Freedom program held in Mexico
The First Continental (America) workshop for Chess for Freedom program, organized by FIDE, FIDE America, and Mexican National Chess Federation, was held in Mexico City on May 15, 2025. Lic. Raul Hernandez Hernandez, President of the Mexico Chess Federation FENAMAC welcomed the participants and expressed appreciation for their attendance. Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, introduced FIDE major social projects for the 2025 Social Chess year. In addition to the Chess for Freedom project—a true leader in international participation—FIDE supports numerous other social programs, including Chess for Hope, Chess for Protection, Chess for Recovery, and Chess for Longevity. FIDE Social Commission provides more details about those projects. Lic. Jose Antonio Carrilo, President of the FIDE America, introduced numerous social chess projects across the Continent, such as Chess for Connections in Canada, Chess for Life in Colombia, and Chess for Freedom in El Salvador. In his presentation, Mikhail Korenman representing the Cook County (Chicago) Sheriff Organization and a Council for FIDE Social Commission, provided an overview of the Chess for Freedom project’s history and reported that 51 countries are currently involved. He also shared findings from a research study conducted by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office on the potential outcomes of the Chess for Freedom (chess for prisoners) program. FIDE Arbiter Jose Manuel Barradas presented the history and current status of the Chess for Freedom project in Mexico. Mexico just completed the Third National Championship among the prisoners, with 17 teams represented Federal and local correctional institutions across the country. Dr. Renato Sales Heredia, a Former National Security Commissioner of the Government of Mexico, discussed the positive impact of chess in prisons in Mexico. FM Alejandra Zavata Gatindo, Administrative Manager of the Salvadoran Chess Federation, shared insights on team preparation in El Salvador and described how the Chess for Freedom program is expanding in the country. The following day, the participants traveled to the Federal Female Prison CPS Morelos 16. Organized by FIDE, the Continental America Championship for prisoners was officiated by the IA Nebojsa Baralic and IA Ana Srebrnic El Salvador Male and Female teams, the winners of the Continental America Championship El Salvador’s male and female teams won the Open and Women’s sections, respectively, while the Trinidad and Tobago youth team claimed victory in the Youth section. More details about the championship will be provided in a follow-up report covering all continental championships.