WuraolaA's Blog

More Than Just Opponents: The Barriers Women Face In Chess

2025-06-06T22:41:15.914Z

Chess is fair—until it isn’t." It’s often called the ultimate meritocracy, where only skill should matter. But while the board may be neutral, the world around it isn’t. The debate on the Lichess forum as regards my previous post reminded me just how many people still believe women face no real barriers in chess. Yet history, data, and countless lived experiences say otherwise.

Breaking Barriers one move at a time

2025-03-08T21:05:26.814Z

Walking into the tournament hall, I quickly realized I was the only female player. Intimidating? Yes. But did that stop me? Absolutely not. I played my game, held my ground, and won my prize! This experience reminded me that stepping into male-dominated spaces can be daunting. But just because the room wasn’t made for us doesn’t mean we don’t belong. If I could do this, so can you.

When Life Pauses Your Chess Clock; Learning to wait for the next move

2026-04-18T20:36:34.84Z

I used to think every game of chess ended on the board. You win, you lose, you learn, and you move on to the next round. But I’ve come to realize that not every “pause” in chess happens because the game is over. Sometimes life steps in and moves the pieces for you. Sometimes you’re ready to play, but you simply can’t sit at the board. Sometimes you have to watch tournaments pass, opportunities slip, and plans you trained for quietly fade into the background. And in those moments, the hardest part isn’t the loss. It’s the waiting.

Chess as a Female Player in Nigeria: My P.O.V

2024-11-16T13:20:27.833Z

Chess in Nigeria offers female players both challenges and triumphs. My journey, inspired by family, reflects the growing resilience and potential of women in the game.