Autism and chess – The spectrum is infinite, and so is our potential to make a difference

On April 6, the Infinite Chess initiative hosted “Infinite Spectrum: Awareness and Recognition”, a transformative online event that united global advocates, educators, and families to advance autism awareness and inclusion. With powerful speeches, heartfelt stories, and the premiere of an exclusive project video, the meetup illuminated how chess and community support can unlock potential for children on the spectrum.

Chessdom encourages you to Watch & Share the Infinite Chess video to spread awareness. Join the Movement via #InfiniteChess on social media. Support inclusive chess programs in your community.

The event began with inspiring words from Dana Reizniece (Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and Project Supervisor), André Vögtlin (Chair of the FIDE Social Commission), and Anastasia Sorokina (Chair of FIDE Women’s Commission and Infinite Chess Project Leader). Their messages underscored FIDE’s commitment to leveraging chess as a tool for social impact.

A highlight of the opening was the premiere of “FIDE Infinite Chess – A Visionary Approach to Modern Chess“, created with immense support of Kazakhstan Chess Federation a 10-minute video showcasing the project’s mission, strategic partnerships, and real-world impact. The film set the stage for discussions on how chess transcends borders and abilities.

Key moments that inspired action

1. Dismantling Stigma with Practical Solutions

Doreen Dia, Occupational Therapist and CEO/founder of iPromise Rehab and Care Services in The Gambia, shared actionable strategies to combat societal stigma. Her insights emphasized:

• The role of community education in fostering acceptance.
• Adaptive learning techniques for neurodiverse children.
• How local advocacy creates systemic change.

“Breaking stigma starts with small, courageous conversations,” she reminded attendees.

2. Chess as a Catalyst for Growth

Ritha James Makame, Life Skills Coordinator at the Ilyanna Foundation and Infinite Chess teacher, revealed the challenges and triumphs of teaching chess to children with autism. Her approach—rooted in patience and creativity—demonstrated how the game:

• Enhances cognitive flexibility and problem-solving.
• Builds social connections through structured interaction.
• Empowers teachers and parents to collaborate effectively.

3. A Mother’s Unwavering Love

Renata Nair, mother of Teegan (a student in the Infinite Chess project, South Africa), moved the audience with her raw, hopeful journey. She described:

• The pivotal role chess played in Teegan’s confidence and focus.
• How community support alleviates isolation for families.
• Why inclusive programs like Infinite Chess are lifelines.

“Every small victory is a testament to what’s possible,” Renata shared.

Honoring Champions: The Infinite Chess partners awards

The event culminated in the Infinite Chess Partners Awards, celebrating unsung heroes in autism advocacy. Winners—nominated included:

• Pioneer Partner – Pep Suárez, Olimpia Chess Academy (Menorca), Luis Blanso de la Cruz, Madrid Chess Academy, Club Ajedrez 64 Villalba (Spain), Sharon Whatley, Gibraltar Chess Association (Gibraltar), Franck Droin (France).
• Regional Growth Leader – Pep Suárez, Olimpia Chess Academy (Menorca), Erick Takawira, KZN Chess Academy (South Africa), Kanthi Sarjoo, The Browns’ School (South Africa), Sharon Whatley, Gibraltar Chess Association (Gibraltar).
• Accuracy and Detail Excellence – Viesturs Kapče (Latvia), Buddhi Nirukshi Panagoda (UK), Rita Wu, Taiwan Youth Chess Association (Taiwan).
• Event Participation Champion – Melodi Dincel (Turkey), Charomova Evguenia (New Zealand), Susana Gonçalves, Association Chess2All (Portugal).
• Innovation Leader – Ng Teck Sen, Bumblebee Training Centre (Malaysia), Anu Bayar, ABChess Academy (Mongolia), Keunae Choe, EBC Foundation (USA).
• Outstanding Support – Luciano Gomes de Sousa (Brazil), Christina Aziz (The Gambia), Viviane Bejjani-Aziz (The Gambia), Elly O. Goro, IYANNA FOUNDATION (Tanzania).
• Collaboration Excellence – Kazakhstan Chess Federation, Kamal Daoudi, INSTITUTION TAHAR SEBTI (Morocco), Dalila Mougaa, INSTITUTION TAHAR SEBTI (Morocco), Albanian Chess Federation.
• Impactful Communicator – Dr. Ankita Sanghavi, Innocent Times School (India), Netra Patkar, ZEP Rehabilitation Centre (India), Mark Bryan (Cyprus).

The awards underscored the power of collective effort in driving inclusion.  

“What an inspiring event! Today, we’ve shared knowledge, stories, and hope. Let’s carry this momentum forward—keep advocating, connecting, and uplifting. A huge thank you to our speakers, attendees, and the Infinite Chess team. Stay tuned for future events, and remember: every step counts in creating a more inclusive world. Until next time—take care, stay inspired, and keep shining!” were Maria Tamkovich’s closing words.

Carrying the Momentum Forward

A heartfelt thank you to all speakers, attendees, and the Infinite Chess team for making this event a milestone in autism advocacy. Together, we’re proving that chess is more than a game—it’s a universal language of opportunity.

“The spectrum is infinite, and so is our potential to make a difference.”

Infinite Chess website: infinitechess.fide.com

More about the Third annual Autism Talks held in Almaty, Kazakhstan

On April 6, Almaty, Kazakhstan held the third annual Autism Talks as part of the Asian Championship of Zone 3.4. The event, dedicated to the World Autism Awareness Day (observed every year on April 2) celebrated inspiring stories of parents of special children.

The event was organized by Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KFC), the national partner of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), as part of the FIDE’s Infinite Chess project.

The FIDE Infinite Chess initiative aims to develop inclusive chess education, and its first steps in Kazakhstan began in November 2024 at Special Boarding School No. 1. In 2025, the project expanded to Almaty, launching at the “Autism Pobedim!” Center, where international coach Vitaliy Kozyak trains two groups of students.

The program featured heartfelt presentations by parents, specialists, public figures, and experts. The speackerskers included:  Aruzhan Sain, Aliya Arkharova, Zhanna Kalieva, Rustam Kairbekov, Madina Nurkenova, and others. The meeting was moderated by Dinara Gaplan.

As part of the expert session, the following professionals shared their knowledge and experience: psychiatrist Asel Ibraeva, behavioral analyst Asiya Kizatova, FIDE Infinite Chess ambassador Nadezhda Kravchuk, psychologist Bakyttygul Akhmetjanova, and UN volunteer Maulen Akhmetov.

“In collaboration with FIDE and the Bolashak Foundation, we at the Kazakhstan Chess Federation are committed to systematically developing inclusive initiatives. We deeply believe that chess is a language that does not require words, but has the power to unite. That is why we launched the Infinite Chess project, opening new horizons for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities,” said Darmen Sadvakasov, Vice President of KCF.

The event concluded with a simultaneous exhibition for children led by Grandmaster and the 2024 World Junior Champion, Kazybek Nogerbek, followed by a prize draw for partners that included chess sets, books, certificates, and courses.

Photos: Yevgeniy Kim