Chess Brings Hope to Vietnam's Highlands

The Vietnam Chess Federation has successfully concluded the fifth season of its "Happy Chess" project, a powerful reminder of how a simple board game can transform lives and build bridges to a brighter future. The season, which ran from June 22 to August 12, 2026, brought together 50 children from the Cil ethnic minority community in the highlands of Lam Dong Province, culminating in a moving Closing Ceremony and the "Friendship Tournament 2026" that celebrated their incredible journey.

The program, held in the scenic but remote highlands near Da Lat, was particularly remarkable for the dedication shown by its young participants. Every day, these children traveled nearly 4 kilometers along winding mountain roads from their villages to attend chess and Zumba classes. The long and difficult journey—often under harsh weather conditions—never dampened their enthusiasm. Their bright smiles and unwavering commitment to learning became the heart and soul of the season, inspiring everyone involved.

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Over the course of nearly two months, the children's transformation was nothing short of inspiring. They began as beginners, many holding a chess piece for the first time, and progressed to playing with confidence, understanding strategic thinking, and mastering tournament rules—including the proper use of chess clocks. By the end of the program, they were ready to compete in a formal setting, demonstrating not only improved skills but also greater self-esteem and discipline.

The Friendship Tournament held on August 12 was a particularly unforgettable moment. The final matches of four categories were set up outdoors, surrounded by the other children, who watched and cheered with joy and excitement. The scene—children from one of Vietnam's most remote communities playing chess under the open sky, supported by their peers—was a simple yet profound image of hope, unity, and the universal appeal of the game. "It was one of those moments that I will always carry in my heart," said the project organizer.

Beyond the chessboard, the "Happy Chess" project, an initiative of the Vietnam Chess Federation, is built on the belief that chess can serve as a "bridge to integration" for underprivileged children. Through a combination of intellectual development and physical activity like Zumba, the program nurtures not only cognitive abilities but also physical health and emotional well-being. It is a holistic approach that aligns perfectly with the mission of the FIDE Social Commission, which actively promotes chess as a vehicle for social inclusion, especially for children at risk and those living in impoverished areas.

The story of Happy Chess is far from over. With continued support, the Vietnam Chess Federation aims to carry this message far and wide: that chess can bring light to the darkest corners and love to the most forgotten places.