As part of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) will host a special community outreach event at Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch. The initiative will bring together international chess leaders and young learners from local schools for an afternoon dedicated to education, inspiration, and social impact.
Approximately 50 students from three underserved schools in the Stellenbosch area will participate in the program, which aims to demonstrate how chess can serve as a powerful tool for education, personal development, leadership, and opportunity creation. By engaging directly with international chess leaders and role models, the outreach initiative seeks to expand educational opportunities and inspire young people from historically disadvantaged communities.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich
Distinguished guests will include FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, entrepreneur and chess patron Timur Turlov, and internationally recognized coach and social impact leader Robert Katende. Katende is best known as the mentor of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi, whose extraordinary journey from the slums of Kampala to international success inspired Disney’s acclaimed film Queen of Katwe. For more than two decades, Katende has used chess as a vehicle for education and community development, helping thousands of children build confidence, resilience, and critical thinking skills.
The program will open with welcome remarks from school leadership and visiting guests, highlighting the role of chess in education, youth empowerment, and community engagement. Speakers will explore how chess develops decision-making, discipline, creativity, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the chessboard.
A highlight of the visit will be an interactive chess session, where students will play friendly games and engage directly with distinguished guests, including Dvorkovich, Turlov, Katende, and representatives of national chess federations. Katende will also lead a special interactive discussion, sharing lessons on ambition, perseverance, education, leadership, and overcoming adversity. His message will encourage students to pursue their goals and recognize the opportunities that learning and determination can create.
The event will conclude with a recognition ceremony, during which participating students will receive commemorative gifts and certificates, followed by official photographs and media opportunities.
Recognition ceremony
This outreach initiative reflects the broader legacy objectives of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship by ensuring that its impact extends beyond competition and reaches local communities. Through direct engagement with students, the program reinforces the message that chess is not only a sport, but also a powerful educational and social development tool capable of transforming lives.
FIDE and ISCF share the belief that every child deserves access to opportunities that foster learning, confidence, and personal growth — and that chess can be a catalyst for achieving that vision.
Additional Educational Program
As part of the Championship, participants, coaches, teachers, and guests will also attend an offline ISCF Master Class with Robert Katende: “Chess as a Tool for Life Development.” Inspired by the story behind Queen of Katwe, Katende will share lessons from more than two decades of using chess to drive education, youth development, and community transformation. Attendees will gain practical insights into how chess cultivates resilience, leadership, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills.
