Our Story
Chess4Girls is a dynamic organization dedicated to empowering girls through the game of chess. Based in San Diego, California, our mission is to create a supportive community where girls can develop critical thinking, strategic planning, and leadership skills, both on and off the chessboard. By providing opportunities to engage with chess, we help girls unlock their potential and build confidence for success in all areas of life.
While participating in our tournaments is one way to support Chess4Girls, there are many other ways to get involved. You can volunteer your time, donate to our cause, or help spread the word about the transformative power of chess. Together, we can inspire a new generation of girls to think critically, lead with confidence, and pursue their goals with determination.
“The strength of a kingdom comes from its King, The strength of a King comes from his Queen.” -Cody Edward Lee Miller
We believe in the potential of every girl to become a confident and strategic thinker, capable of shaping her own future and making a positive impact on the world.
Who are we?
Hi, I’m Iniya Mathivanan, and I’ve been passionate about chess for over 7 years. Chess has always been more than just a game to me—it’s a challenge, a strategy, and a way to push my limits. About two years ago, I moved from Arizona to San Diego, California, and while many things in my life changed, one thing remained constant: the chess community. Throughout all my years of playing, one thing I noticed at nearly every tournament I attended was that male players predominantly dominated it. While the game itself is universal, the gender disparity was hard to ignore. That’s when I realized how important it is for girls and women to have a space where they feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to pursue their passion for chess. That is where Chess4Girls comes in, whether it’s through volunteering, hosting tournaments, or creating a community where girls can connect, Chess4Girls is helping to make chess more inclusive for everyone.
