The 12th Annual Chess & Community Conference - Future Forward: Games Changers in a Global World

Prepare to embark on an inspiring journey at the 12th Annual Chess & Community Conference, themed "Future Forward: Game Changers in a Global World." This extraordinary event, taking place in Athens, Georgia, is a rallying call for young leaders from across the globe to emerge, innovate, and connect.

Building on its legacy of using chess as a tool for empowerment and change, the 2025 conference pushes boundaries with a bold focus on developing tomorrow’s leaders through cultural exchange and groundbreaking ideas. With over 500 participants expected—including educators, community leaders, youth development professionals, and students—this year’s event promises to be more than just a conference; it’s a movement shaping a brighter, more connected world. This conference is youth-led and all families are welcome.

Key Highlights

• Keynote Speakers:
  • Zach McLeroy, Co-Founder of Zaxby’s and Founder of The McLeroy Family Foundation, will share his entrepreneurial journey and insights into leadership, philanthropy and resilience.
  • Khary Payton, a renowned actor, will captivate attendees with powerful storytelling on how diverse voices are shaping global futures.
• Ubuntu Cultural Exchange Program: For the first time, young leaders from Lagos, Nigeria, will join their American counterparts to co-lead the conference. This collaboration between Chess in Slums Africa and Chess & Community Inc. brings fresh perspectives and fosters a meaningful exchange of ideas and cultures.
• Interactive Activities:
  • Justice Served: Kids vs. Police Chess Competition
  • Think Before You Move Scholarship Awards
  • Chess and Robotics Tournaments
  • Innovative Robotics and Virtual Reality Demonstrations
  • Chess museum

Join Us

Be part of this groundbreaking conference as we move the Future Forward, empowering the next generation of game-changers. Together, let’s inspire youth not just to think about tomorrow but to build it today.

Location: The Classic Center is located at 300 N Thomas St, Athens, GA 30601. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to register, please visit www.chessandcommunity.org/conference . Follow us on social media @chessandcommunity (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) for more exciting events leading up to the conference.

About Chess & Community Founded in 2012, Chess & Community Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering young leaders and fostering youth advancement across Georgia. CC' mission is to instill critical skills in civic engagement, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and problem-solving, equipping youth to excel academically and grow into influential leaders.