HARNESS THE POWER OF CHESS.

Introduction

our mission is to ELEVATe A NEW GENERATION OF STRATEGIC, INCLUSIVE, & CIVICALLY-MINDED LEADERS THROUGH THE POWER OF CHESS. 

Since 2014, Queens Gambit has used chess as an influential tactic in building the next generation of leaders. Founded on the belief that chess offers captivating and meaningful learning opportunities that transform the way in which youth can acquire knowledge, develop their thinking abilities, and engage with the world, we serve approximately 2,000 youth, grades 1-12, per year. Our programs are intentionally rooted in communities where access to chess - and the opportunities it creates - is often limited. We focus on reaching young women, girls, and students of color, especially those from low-income backgrounds, who have historically been excluded from the game.

Reviews

“At The Heyward House, we are proud to partner with Queens Gambit and witness its positive impact on children through its chess program."

Seeing the development of young minds as they learn to strategize and think critically while enjoying the game of chess is heartwarming. The Queens Gambit chess program nurtures their cognitive abilities and fosters essential life skills such as patience, concentration, and sportsmanship. To see children flourish under the guidance of this wonderful initiative is why we chose to support Queens Gambit's dedication to empowering young individuals through the game of chess.

Charlotte Heyward, Executive Director of the Heyward House/Cam Heyward Foundation

"The Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania exists to help kids reach their potential and that is why we value our partnership with Queens Gambit.”

And their innovative chess-based programming is focused on developing a new generation of leaders. We are grateful for the collaborate spirit of Ashley and the Queens Gambit Board, as their creative approach engages kids through the power of chess to accelerate our mission.

Christopher Watts, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania

“Ever since I was young, Chess has always been a magical game for me.”

When I first moved to Pittsburgh, I discovered the Queens Gambit Chess Institute through a program they were doing at my local library. After that, I began to take classes through the Institute. I loved the lessons because it was evident that the instructors loved the game itself and teaching it. Now, I am a youth instructor because I wish to inspire more people to be involved with chess so they can feel that same magic that I felt when I first played.

Sonia Palit, Youth Instructor

Testimonials

WHO WE ARE

FOUNDED BY CHESS CHAMP ASHLEY LYNN PRIORe

Ashley began playing competitive chess at the age of four. By the time she was eight, she was already teaching others and quickly realized the inaccessibility of chess. When she was 14, she founded Queens Gambit to ensure youth had access to the powers of chess. Today, Queens Gambit stands as a prominent model for fostering community through the game of chess. Ashley put Pittsburgh on the map as a chess powerhouse.

how we serve

EMPOWERING YOUTH TO RECOGNIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

Out-of-School Time & In-School Programs

We deliver consistent, high-quality chess enrichment in both after-school and in-school settings, focusing on communities that have historically lacked access to such opportunities. Across 10+ partner sites each season, our team provides programming two to three times per week, typically between 4–6 PM. These sessions go beyond gameplay - offering structured, engaging experiences that build strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Workforce & Leadership Development

Through our Youth Instructor Program, we train and employ young leaders to teach chess and mentor peers. Participants gain real-world experience in education, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership. We provide invaluable opportunities for exploration, creativity, and professional growth - all while fostering meaningful relationships with mentors and supportive adults. This hands-on training equips youth with the tools to lead with confidence in any space.

our vision

WE ENVISION AN EQUITABLE COMMUNITY WHERE THOUGHTFUL, INTENTIONAL, AND INCLUSIVE LEADERS SOLVE SOCIETY’S BIGGEST OBSTACLES.

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