The Jamaica Chess Federation (JCF) says its efforts in leveraging chess for social transformation have received what it describes as resounding international acclaim, following what it considers a highly successful visit by a delegation from the World Chess Federation (FIDE), May 17-19.

Led by Dana Reizniece, deputy chair of the FIDE Management Board, the delegation lauded the JCF for its social chess initiatives and its leadership within the Caribbean region.

The high-level FIDE delegation, which also included José Carrillo and Francisco Cruz, president and vice-president, respectively, of the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA), engaged in meetings with key figures in Jamaican chess. They met with JCF President National Master (NM) Peter Myers and senior members of the JCF National Executive Council, including JCF Vice-President, Woman International Master (WIM) Deborah Richards-Porter, JCF Treasurer, International Master (IM) Jomo Pitterson, JCF Secretary Maxine Brown, JCF Strategic Planning Chair Richard Shaw and JCF Past President Ian Wilkinson, KC. Further discussions were held with Jamaica Olympic Association, and Jamaica Paralympic Association President Christopher Samuda, representatives from the Department of Correctional Services and leaders of the Jamaica Society for the Blind, underscoring the broad societal impact of the JCF’s work.

The JCF says a highlight of the visit was the delegation’s direct observation of two of its social programmes — its initiatives within correctional facilities and its work with the visually impaired community.

“These programmes exemplify how chess is being utilised as a powerful tool for rehabilitation, cognitive development and social inclusion, reaching individuals in diverse and often underserved communities,” the federation said.

Reizniece, visibly impressed by what she witnessed, remarked, “The trip to Jamaica was amazing! The JCF is powered by people who are not just passionate about chess, but about using it to change lives. Truly a golden team. In this Year of Social Chess, Jamaica’s work with the blind and incarcerated communities exemplifies the very heart of our mission, to make chess accessible and impactful for all.”

The JCF says her words describe Jamaica’s role, which it calls pivotal, in FIDE’s global agenda for social chess.

Myers expressed gratitude for the international recognition.

“This was a moment to show that chess in Jamaica is more than pushing pawns; it’s a tool for transformation,” he said. “We are committed to expanding access to all communities and deeply appreciate FIDE and CCA’s support.”

Adding to the commendations, Carrillo affirmed Jamaica’s regional standing.

“Jamaica has a rich history of leadership in chess across the Caribbean, and they continue to set the bar in 2025 for FIDE’s Year of Social Chess,” he said. “The JCF’s dedication to inclusion and innovation serves as an inspiration for the entire region. What we’ve witnessed here is a living model of how chess can change lives.”

Cruz is set to return to Jamaica in June. He will lead a School Instructor Seminar, which the JCF says will further strengthen the foundation of chess education, and continue engaging with the JCF’s social initiatives as part of his ongoing work with the FIDE Diversity Commission.

The federation says the FIDE delegation departed Jamaica with what it describes as a “renewed inspiration and a firm commitment to spotlight the nation’s exemplary efforts as a blueprint for socially impactful chess development worldwide. This visit solidifies Jamaica’s position as a beacon of innovation in the global chess community, demonstrating how the strategic game can profoundly contribute to societal well-being and human flourishing”.