The Power of Chess

Amer Mach’s journey to becoming a chess champion is a powerful story of resilience, hope and the transformative power of education and sports. At just 16 years old, Amer became one of the best chess players in the camp, proving that with determination, dreams can become reality.

Becoming a chess champion

At six years old, Amer and her family fled South Sudan and found safety in Kakuma refugee camp, Kenya. Amer's passion for chess began after watching her siblings play.

“I used to see people playing chess, and I liked the game,” says Amer. “My sister and brother played very well. They taught me how.”

Amer quickly mastered the game and developed her own strategy, catching the attention of her teammates at school.

“She makes moves you can’t even understand - strong moves,” says Akec Garang, a fellow chess player at Amer’s school in Kakuma. “But she’s always honest in her game.” 

Amer’s achievements in chess have placed her among Kakuma’s most promising players. She and her team qualified for the 2024 World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. Although they couldn’t attend due to visa delays, the qualification itself was a significant milestone, showing the potential Amer and her teammates possess.

“If I get a chance to play chess internationally, I would like to further my education and help my family,” she says.

Beyond playing, Amer dreams of becoming a chess coach, teaching others the skills she has learned over the years.

Empowering refugees through chess

In Kakuma, sports and education provide refugees with purpose, belonging and new opportunities. Chess, in particular, has become a powerful tool for developing critical thinking, analytical skills and personal growth.

Through UNHCR’s Chess for Protection initiative, refugee girls like Amer have learned not only how to play chess but also developed life skills. Since its launch in 2021, over 2,000 children from 36 schools in Kakuma have joined chess clubs. The program has fostered a sense of community, hope, and empowerment among its participants. 

Amer, having seen how chess has changed her life, aims to inspire others to use the game to improve themselves and build a better future.

“I would encourage the youth to play chess and enjoy the game,” says Amer. “Learn to play like me because it may help you one day, like it helped me.”

A bright future ahead

Amer’s journey is just beginning. As she continues to improve her skills and pursue her dreams, she serves as an inspiration to young refugees who dare to dream. For Amer, chess is more than just a game. It’s a stepping stone to a brighter, more hopeful future.