South Africa’s West Coast Chess Union

On an African chess group on WhatsApp, Andrew Lewaks shared this three-year-old video from a youth initiative involving the West Coast Chess Union in South Africa. “Helping Kings and Queens Make the Right Moves” is a very touching tribute showing the benefits of chess as an alternative to other national sports like rugby and netball.

Just sharing some work that I did a few years back. Please don’t underestimate the work you do in anyone’s life. Being in charge of Chess put you in a powerful position to change lives. I thank Basil Ellman, Nathan Kamalie and Lyndon Julies (West Coast Chess Mafia) that inspired me to do this. I salute you guys. Chess needs more of this.

The opening scene shows some optimistic youth talking about how they want to make an impact in the world. This is a very positive image as opposed to the social challenges they often face.

“I would like to share opportunities with other kids in my community get them further than I got.”

~ Enrico Abdol, chess teacher at St. Helena Primary School

Enrico Abdol serves as the teacher of the St. Helena Primary School and is desirous of providing children a more positive outlook on life. Coming from a single-parent home he talks about the importance of his work and offers “I would like to share opportunities with kids in my community to get them further than I got.” The video is years old, but there is a valuable message.