FIDE Social Chess Storytelling Challenge 2025: Every Move Counts

by ChessBase
4/25/2025 – FIDE has launched the Social Chess Storytelling Challenge 2025, inviting filmmakers, federations, and changemakers worldwide to share short films that showcase the social impact of chess. Under the theme "Every Move Counts", the competition seeks stories of resilience, inclusion, and opportunity inspired by the game. Open to all, with professional and grassroots categories, submissions run from 24 April to 25 October. Winning entries will be honoured at the 2026 Olympiad and featured across FIDE’s platforms and global events.
Winning starts with what you know
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Because behind every move, there's a story that can change the world

Press release by FIDE

Chess is more than a game – it's a lifeline, a bridge, a silent language of resilience and hope. From the corners of prison cells to lively classrooms, refugee camps and community halls, chess is quietly rewriting destinies. Now, FIDE invites you to tell these stories.

We are proud to announce the FIDE Social Chess Storytelling Challenge, a global competition celebrating the transformative power of chess. Under the powerful theme "Every Move Counts", we are calling on filmmakers, federations, and everyday changemakers to share short films that capture the social impact of chess around the world.

This is your chance to inspire, amplify unheard voices, and show how a board of 64 squares can become a platform for growth, unity, and change.

What we're looking for

We seek compelling stories told through short films that spotlight:

  • Personal development: How chess fosters confidence, sharpens critical thinking, and enhances problem-solving skills, empowering individuals to overcome life’s challenges.
  • Social transformation: The role of chess in bringing diverse groups together, fostering inclusion, and supporting education and rehabilitation programs.
  • Opportunities & livelihoods: How chess creates opportunities for vulnerable individuals and communities, offering pathways for personal and professional growth.

Submissions may fall into one of two categories:

  • Professional (high-quality production)
  • Grassroots (creative, amateur, including phone-shot videos)

Important dates

  • Submissions open: April 24, 2025
  • Deadline: October 25, 2025
  • Submit here: fide.com/social2025-storytelling-challenge

Awards & recognition

Winners will receive:

  • A special FIDE Trophy
  • An invitation to the FIDE Olympiad 2026 Opening Ceremony (2 nights stay for 2 members included)
  • A global spotlight: The top films will be showcased during the 2025 Social Chess Conference, FIDE’s official social media, and social chess events.

Award categories:

  • Best Short Film (Professional)
  • Best Grassroots Film (Amateur)
  • FIDE Social Commission Choice Award

Who can participate?

Everyone. There are no age or nationality restrictions. You may submit more than one film.

FIDE Chess Storytelling Challenge 2025

Let your camera be the messenger, and your story the move that matters.

Because every move counts.

For full rules and submission details, visit: fide.com/social2025-storytelling-challenge

For inquiries, contact: sc.secretary@fide.com

Most players prefer to attack rather than defend. But what is the correct way to do it? GM Dr Karsten Müller has compiled many rules and motifs to guide you, along with sharpening your intuition for the exceptions.

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