KINGSTON, Jamaica — The next generation of Jamaican chess talent was on full display in Olympic Gardens on Saturday, June 6, as more than 120 children gathered for the St Andrew West Central Chess Fun Day 2026.

It was an oversubscribed community event hosted by Prime Minister and Member of Parliament Dr Andrew Holness.

The event was held at the Jamaica China Goodwill Infant School and brought together beginners and advanced young players from across the constituency for a full day of coaching, competitive matches and youth engagement.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to expose children in the constituency to constructive activities that build discipline, focus, critical thinking and confidence. Throughout the day, participants were guided by coaches who introduced beginners to the fundamentals of the game, while more advanced players were challenged through structured matches.

Children learned how the pieces move, how to protect the king, how to think before making a move and how to plan ahead. For those already familiar with the sport, the event provided an opportunity to sharpen their skills and compete in a supportive environment.

Competitive matches were held in both beginner and advanced categories, with MVP medals presented to the top five performers in each group.

Eight-year-old Je’Nasiya Mais, a resident of the community and student of Morris Knibb Preparatory School, was named Chess Champion of the Day. Je’Nasiya, who is also the 2025 Central American and Caribbean Youth Chess Champion, was presented  with a trophy, medal and tablet by the prime minister.

Tradail Boodie,11, was named first runner-up and was also presented with a trophy and medal for his outstanding performance.

A highlight of the day was Holness’ participation in two friendly blitz matches. The Prime Minister first played against Chess Champion of the Day, Je’Nasiya Mais, and later against young chess player Jaden Shaw, drawing the attention of the children who gathered to watch the friendly contests.

Addressing the participants, Holness encouraged the children to continue learning chess and to take the sport seriously, noting that it is recognised internationally and provides benefits beyond competition.

The prime minister shared that he has played chess since high school and has personally benefited from the game. He said chess helps to develop patience, discipline, concentration, decision-making, strategic thinking and the ability to plan several moves ahead.

Holness also told the children that every move in chess has consequences, making the sport an important tool for teaching responsibility, preparation and calm thinking under pressure.

He said Jamaica has the talent to produce more outstanding chess players and future grandmasters, especially as more children are exposed to the sport through structured programmes.

The prime minister also noted that his Administration has been supporting the development of chess nationally. He pointed to the Government of Jamaica’s partnership with the Jamaica Chess Federation through the major sports initiative commonly known as the GM-in-10 Programme, which is backed by a $40 million investment from the Sports Development Foundation.

He also noted that in several countries, chess is a regular feature in parks and public spaces. He said that as parks and recreational spaces are developed across St Andrew West Central, he would seek to include chess as one of the activities available to residents, particularly children and young people.

The Chess Fun Day was held in partnership with Ian Wilkinson, President of the Jamaica Chess Federation, who was recognised for his support and contribution to the development of chess in Jamaica.

Support for the event was also provided by the Jamaica Chess Federation, its executives and coaching team, private chess clubs, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Principal and team at the Jamaica China Goodwill Infant School, the Penwood Cadet Unit, Porosi Procurement and Genius Empire Sound.

Decorated young chess player and Prime Minister’s Youth Awardee Jaden Shaw plays a friendly blitz match with Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, during the West Central St. Andrew Chess Fun Day 2026.

Participants of the West Central St. Andrew Chess Fun Day 2026 share a group moment with Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, following the successful staging of the event.