SOM Chess Academy was founded in 2004 by Robert Katende, the SOM Chess Academy is a transformative Ugandan-based organization that uses chess as a powerful tool to uplift underprivileged children, particularly those from the slums of Kampala. By teaching chess, the academy goes beyond the game itself, fostering abstract thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that empower participants to overcome life’s challenges and unlock their full potential.

More than just a chess academy, the organization provides a holistic support system for its students. This includes educational assistance, vocational training, and mentorship programs designed to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed in life. Over the past two decades, the academy has transformed countless lives, with alumni achieving remarkable success as engineers, doctors, accountants, and more. Among its most inspiring stories is Phiona Mutesi, whose extraordinary journey from the slums of Kampala to international chess stardom was immortalized in the Disney film Queen of Katwe. Her story stands as a testament to the academy’s mission and impact.

Today, the SOM Chess Academy has expanded its reach far beyond Uganda, with programs in Gulu, Nairobi, and over 40 cities across three countries. The academy has also pioneered inclusive initiatives, such as programs for handicapped students and chess training in prisons, demonstrating its commitment to empowering marginalized communities everywhere. Through its innovative approach, the SOM Chess Academy continues to change lives, one move at a time since 2004.

The academy’s broader goals include breaking the cycles of poverty and illiteracy through chess and education, with support from partnerships and the Robert Katende Initiative. This organization has expanded its reach internationally, with some students now pursuing global careers in various fields​