Tuesday afternoons, which, like many others across the country, Alexandra children might have spent glued to their smartphones or television screens, have become more fun and intellectually stimulating, as young Alexandra children are putting their phones down and opting for chess lessons instead.

The Refilwe Pieterse Foundation’s chess programme, an initiative rooted in play, discipline, and intergenerational learning, offers children an escape from constant online content. Instead, they bend over chessboards, intently devising strategies under the guidance of local professional chess players.

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Refilwe Pieterse, founder of the organisation, said after-school activities that challenge the mind are not prevalent in Alexandra, and children have little access to programmes that stretch their thinking.

Now, children between the ages of 7 and 17, who might traditionally have been exposed only to football, netball, cricket, and other physically demanding games, are offered activities that challenge their minds.

“Our aim is to help children gain sharper minds, build strong character, and develop social skills,” Pieterse said. “What makes it unique is that children play in a beautiful garden, and the game is coached by local professional chess players.”

Since its launch earlier this year, the programme has become a platform where children sharpen their focus and challenge each other in a safe space, while also building social skills.
The foundation believes chess can fill a critical gap, offering a healthier, safer alternative for child development.

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Sessions take place once a week in Alexandra, on 13th Avenue and Hofmeyer, but sometimes moving to Altrec.

The programme is supported by Maboneng Township Arts Experience, offering coaches a monthly stipend. This partnership enables the foundation to provide chessboards, training materials, and a welcoming space where children gather for the sessions.

Looking ahead, the foundation plans to extend the programme to the Alex Storytellers Hub and selected primary schools.

Families eager to register their children can visit refilwepieterse.org for details.

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