Board Member Spotlight: Raihan Izimbetova

At Queens Gambit, our board is made up of leaders who are deeply committed to expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and building pathways for the next generation - and Raihan Izimbetova brings that mission to life through her work every day.

As a Senior Program Manager at Partner4Work, Raihan specializes in workforce development for priority populations. She leads initiatives that expand access to job training, education, and career opportunities, helping individuals build skills and advance their futures. With a background in international development and public policy, she brings a multilingual, culturally informed perspective and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion.

So what inspired her to join Queens Gambit?

“I grew up playing chess at home and competitively at school in Central Asia, and I appreciate how the game fosters critical thinking and life skills for the next generation. Learning about Queens Gambit and its mission to empower youth through chess deepened my admiration for its work. I knew I wanted to join this remarkable Pittsburgh organization to help expand chess programs in communities where access to the game - and the opportunities it creates - can unlock potential and transform lives.”

For Raihan, chess is more than a game - it’s a global connector.

“Youth should learn chess because it’s a game full of strategy, action, and endless opportunities for growth. I may be biased - I love chess - but it builds critical thinking, sharpens decision-making, and boosts confidence. Playing chess around the world with people from diverse backgrounds has shown me that the game instantly connects people, creating camaraderie, friendliness, and a welcoming sense of community wherever you are.”

Looking ahead, she’s especially excited about the role Queens Gambit can play in workforce development.

“My hope is for the organization to expand and strengthen workforce development programming. I’m thrilled to see Next Move Leaders, Queens Gambit’s youth leadership and workforce initiative, continue to upskill, grow, and empower the next generation.”

Fun fact: Raihan is passionate about international exchange programs - she was an exchange student herself - and she’s passed her love of chess on by teaching her own kids to play.

A global thinker, workforce strategist, and advocate for inclusive opportunity, Raihan brings a powerful perspective to Queens Gambit as we continue to grow our impact.