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Women’s Chess Marathon 2025: Highlights from South Africa and Zambia
The second week of the Women’s Chess Marathon 2025 brought energy, hope, and inspiration to Africa. From South Africa to Zambia, women and girls came together to celebrate their passion for chess and show the world their growing strength.
This global initiative is part of FIDE’s Social Year of Chess. August is dedicated to Women in Chess, honoring achievements and inspiring the next generation. Across continents, the Women’s Chess Marathon is creating a movement of confidence, learning, and opportunity.
South Africa: Queen’s Chess Training Workshop
In South Africa, the Queen’s Chess Training Workshop took place at Club Mykonos Resort, Langebaan. Organized with the South African Chess Federation, it gathered talented women players for two days of focused training.
The players worked on strategies to beat stronger opponents, mastered middlegame planning, sharpened tactical skills, and learned the importance of stamina—both mental and physical.
The sessions were led by FT Eric Takawira, FI Reuben Salimu, Nadzeya Krauchuk, and WGM Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board. Dana’s talk “Making it in Chess” inspired the participants. She reminded them that success in chess also requires fitness, healthy food, and proper rest. She even joined the girls for a morning run before classes!
Beyond the workshop, Dana visited Louwville High School for a simultaneous exhibition. The children’s excitement and eagerness to learn made the event unforgettable.
The celebrations continued with a Women’s Month Blitz Tournament, combining competition with fun and community spirit. Adding to the joy, three South African women players were recently awarded new national titles—a proud milestone for women’s chess in the country.
Long-Term Training with IM/WGM Salome Melia
Alongside the workshop, IM/WGM Salome Melia is leading a longer-term project for over 35 girls. They receive weekly online coaching, plus offline events and seminars.
This program ensures that Women’s Chess Month has a lasting impact, giving young players continued access to world-class training and safe, supportive learning spaces.
Zambia: Rapid Women’s Chess Championship
Soon after, the spotlight shifted to Zambia. The Zambia Rapid Women’s Chess Championship made history with 88 participants—the largest women’s chess event ever in the country.
Dana Reizniece joined the event, encouraging players to aim high both in chess and in life. Her words motivated and inspired everyone present. The event was not only a competition but also a celebration of community and empowerment.
Why These Events Matter
The Women’s Chess Marathon is not just about tournaments. It creates safe and inspiring spaces where girls and women can:
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Build confidence through learning and playing chess.
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Feel connected to a global community of women in chess.
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Find role models who prove success is possible.
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Celebrate progress together while chasing personal goals.
These events show that chess can be more than a game—it can be a tool for growth, opportunity, and empowerment.
Looking Ahead
The Women’s Chess Marathon will continue across Asia, Australia, and Europe in the coming weeks. The message is clear: women belong in chess, and their potential is limitless.
The powerful stories from South Africa and Zambia prove that with the right support, initiatives, and role models, women’s chess will only grow stronger.
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess thanks the federations, coaches, organizers, and participants for making these events a true success. The journey of the #WomensChessMarathon continues!
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
