How chess offers DRC’s displaced children respite from conflict
Gabriel Nzaji teaches internally displaced Congolese children the rules of chess as part of the Chess in the City initiative at Focus Congo site in Kibati, near Goma. The aim is for youngsters traumatised by violence to learn the game for pleasure and to develop critical thinking skills. They set up using a waterproof, foldable chessboard. Photograph: Arlette Bashizi/Reuters
I was in a bookshop today but they didn't have the book I wanted. So I went to the desk to see if they could order it. While I was waiting I looked at a book on the counter called A Field Guide To Tasmanian Fungi and I thought what a great book to help ID all the species I see about. I wasn't going to buy it, though, until I noticed that I knew one of the authors, who besides being a mycologist, is a keen chess player.
Chess Grandmaster Anna Muzychuk refuses to play in Saudi Arabia and says: "In a few days, I will lose two world titles, back to back." Because I decided not to go to Saudi Arabia. I refuse to play by special rules, to wear abaya, to be accompanied by a man so I can leave the hotel, so I don't feel like a second class person. #saudiarabia#equalrights