For a decade of my life, I dedicated myself to the exciting world of professional chess, where every move was a calculated strategy and every tournament a high-stakes battle of wits. Those years of intense competition improved my skills and created a deep connection with the game.
However, after a decade of living and breathing chess professionally, I found myself yearning for a different kind of relationship with the game. So, I transitioned into teaching the game full-time & playing chess purely for the joy it brought me. These subsequent ten years of playing for fun allowed me to rediscover the pure delight of every move, the camaraderie of casual games, and the timeless appeal of chess as a pastime. This dual chess journey, one as a professional and the other as a casual enthusiast, has enriched my life in profound ways, offering me a unique perspective on the multifaceted beauty of this ancient and captivating game.
With over a decade of experience as an established chess coach, my journey in nurturing the minds of chess enthusiasts, both young and old, has been immensely rewarding. Guiding students through the intricate strategies and tactics of this ancient game has been a labor of love. From teaching eager youngsters their first moves to refining the skills of seasoned adults, I've witnessed the transformative power of chess in shaping critical thinking, strategic planning, and a deep appreciation for the game's nuances. My tenure has allowed me to adapt my teaching methods to meet the unique needs and levels of each student, fostering a sense of accomplishment and growth in every player I've had the privilege to coach. It's been a remarkable journey of sharing the timeless beauty of chess with a diverse array of individuals, and I'm continually inspired by the lifelong learning this game inspires.
Emerging as a best-selling chess author on Amazon as a new author has been an exhilarating and unexpected journey. It began with a deep love for the game and a desire to share its wonders with others. The initial release of my first chess book was met with uncertainty, but the chess community's support and the power of digital platforms like Amazon propelled it to best-seller status.
Being a National Chess Arbiter has been a fulfilling role that has allowed me to contribute to the vibrant chess community in my country. As an arbiter, I've been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that chess tournaments are conducted fairly and according to the rules, which is no small feat given the complexity of the game. Whether overseeing local competitions or major national events, my role has been to maintain order, resolve disputes, and uphold the integrity of the game. It's a position that requires a deep understanding of chess regulations, strong organizational skills, and the ability to make impartial judgments. Serving as a National Chess Arbiter has not only deepened my connection to the chess world but has also reinforced my commitment to fostering a thriving and sportsmanlike chess environment for players of all levels.
Representing the Canadian Women's Chess team at the World Chess Olympiad in both 2010 ( Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia) and 2012 (Istanbul, Turkey) was a pinnacle of my chess career. It was an incredible honor to wear the maple leaf on the global stage, competing against top players from around the world. These experiences were marked by intense preparation, unwavering team spirit, and the thrill of each match. They not only elevated my chess skills but also exposed me to diverse playing styles and cultures. Being part of a team that shared a common passion for the game and proudly represented our nation remains a cherished memory. Sadly, have not played in others after quitting competitive chess in 2013.
Becoming a four-time Canadian Girls Chess Champion in the years 2005, 2007, 2008, and 2011 was a culmination of years of dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in chess. These titles represent the pinnacle of my competitive achievements, and each victory was a testament to countless hours of study and practice. Even in the years when I came second, in 2004 and 2006, those experiences served as valuable lessons that fueled my determination to reach the top. These championships were not just personal triumphs but also a source of pride for my supporters and the Canadian chess community. They underscore the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the enduring love for the game. These moments in my chess career continue to inspire me and reinforce my commitment to both the sport and its aspiring players.
Securing the title of Ontario Girls Champion six times, in the years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, and 2010, has been a defining chapter in my chess journey. These victories represented not just a collection of titles, but a testament to years of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering passion for the game. Each year, the competition grew stronger, and each win carried its unique set of challenges, making these championships all the more meaningful. Becoming a recurrent champion in my home province not only brought personal satisfaction but also served as a source of inspiration for aspiring young chess players, emphasizing the importance of hard work and determination in the pursuit of excellence. These years as the Ontario Girls Champion remain a cherished part of my chess legacy, fueling my continued love for the game and my commitment to its growth within the community.
Winning multiple awards from the Chess Federation of Canada for popularizing chess in my homeland has been an incredibly rewarding experience. To me, chess is more than just a game; it's a vehicle for intellectual growth, strategic thinking, and community building. These awards serve as recognition for my efforts in sharing this passion with fellow Canadians, from organizing tournaments to leading educational initiatives. The support from the chess community and the acknowledgment from the Federation have been both humbling and motivating.
I've been granted multiple awards for popularizing chess in Canada by founding Pub Chess Toronto & Vancouver Chess Club.
Pub Chess is still around since '15 and is one of the most recognized chess clubs in the world. Players like Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, and GothamChess (+more) have visited!
In 2013, at the age of 18, I achieved the distinction of being the 4th best woman in Canada in chess, a testament to my dedication and skill in the game. Despite this significant accomplishment, I decided to step away from competitive chess the following year. The decision was a difficult one, but it allowed me to focus on other personal and professional pursuits while still cherishing the experiences and lessons that competitive chess brought into my life.