Recognising the lack of female representation in chess clubs and tournaments, we embarked on a mission to establish an inclusive community of all women and girls who play chess in London and beyond, while playing competitive chess since 2022. Our efforts have resulted in forming a substantial group, eagerly seeking a space to call their own —a sanctuary dedicated to all women keen to hone their chess skills.
MEET THE TEAM
Lucinda Thompson
I am an engineer by profession and have been an active player with the London Women’s Chess Club (LWCC) for one year. As Treasurer, I am responsible for overseeing the club’s financial health, ensuring transparency, and managing the funds necessary to support our coaching sessions and tournaments. I am committed to maintaining a strong financial foundation for the LWCC’s continued success and growth.
Finance Director
Zoya Boozorginia
The founder and Managing Director of the London Women Chess Club (LWCC). With a background as project architect, Zoya brings creativity, structure, and vision to every initiative she leads.
Having learned chess as a child, Zoya rediscovered her passion for the game in adulthood, joining Battersea Chess Club in 2021 and quickly immersing herself in competitive chess. Inspired by The Queen’s Gambit Netflix series, she became even more captivated by the beauty and challenge of the game. Wherever she went, Zoya gathered women who shared her enthusiasm for chess, and as the group grew, she realised it was time to create something lasting: a dedicated club for women.
Her vision for LWCC is to build a self-sustaining, organic community that grows with its members. She describes the club as her lifelong passion and personal project, one that has helped her grow in confidence, develop leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of culture, learning, and human connection.
Through LWCC, Zoya’s mission is to make chess accessible, inclusive, and inspiring, encouraging women at all levels to build confidence, connect socially, and compete professionally.
Founder & Managing Director
“CHESS IS FOR ALL”
From its humble beginnings, our initiative has flourished, attracting members from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations. The shared passion for chess has united us, creating a supportive network that transcends borders. Through mutual encouragement and friendly competition, we have fostered an environment that empowers women to thrive in chess. With unwavering determination, we now stand at the cusp of realising our vision: establishing a dedicated space for women to come together and enjoy the game that unites us.
We aim to create a welcoming environment for players of all levels, focusing on providing women with an enjoyable experience in playing chess and enhancing their skills. Through our dedication to inclusivity and promoting strategic thinking, we strive to foster a vibrant community where individuals can thrive and develop their passion for the game.
We envision a sanctuary that not only fosters strategic thinking and tactical prowess but also promotes camaraderie and lifelong friendships. Together, we are poised to make history and reshape the landscape of competitive chess. Join us on this extraordinary journey as we pave the way for a brighter future, where women’s contributions in the chess community are celebrated and cherished. Together, we can turn the page on tradition and create a new chapter that champions Diversity and Inclusivity in the world of chess — Founder’s Experience