Chess 3000 was founded in 2024 by Khalon Davis, a local Atlanta high school student, as a youth-centered program that introduces the art of chess in a way that is fun, competitive, and transformative. The initiative grew out of Khalon’s own journey—beginning with his first lessons in kindergarten and continuing through years of competition—where he recognized a lack of diversity in the game. Determined to change that, he created a space where more young people could discover chess and the many opportunities it provides.
Through Chess 3000, Khalon currently teaches weekly sessions at Utopian Academy Middle School, inspiring students to strengthen critical thinking, sharpen problem-solving skills, and practice time management and sound decision-making. Students also work on memory and overall brain function, developing habits of discipline that carry into the classroom and beyond. The program emphasizes sportsmanship and respect for competitors, helping participants learn to win and lose with grace, while also introducing collaborative approaches to challenges both on and off the board.
“When I played chess tournaments, I rarely saw kids that looked like me. I wanted to create this opportunity to introduce kids like me to the game. I also want to challenge young people to use their minds in new ways,” said Davis. “Chess is about patience, strategy, and discipline—skills that apply not only to the game but also to life.”
Chess 3000 offers assemblies, weekly training sessions, competitions, and opportunities to participate in local tournaments, with the goal of preparing students for competition opportunities outside of the school. Students sharpen their chess skills in a welcoming environment that fosters growth and belonging. The benefits extend well beyond the board: participants develop focus, perseverance, and creativity while also building friendships, mentorship connections, and a sense of community that supports them inside and outside the classroom. For schools, the program enriches curricula with a unique activity that enhances academic performance and personal development. For communities, it broadens access and representation in a sport that has historically lacked diversity, while preparing a new generation of thoughtful, capable leaders.
Through Chess 3000, Khalon currently teaches weekly sessions at Utopian Academy Middle School, inspiring students to strengthen critical thinking, sharpen problem-solving skills, and practice time management and sound decision-making. Students also work on memory and overall brain function, developing habits of discipline that carry into the classroom and beyond. The program emphasizes sportsmanship and respect for competitors, helping participants learn to win and lose with grace, while also introducing collaborative approaches to challenges both on and off the board.
“When I played chess tournaments, I rarely saw kids that looked like me. I wanted to create this opportunity to introduce kids like me to the game. I also want to challenge young people to use their minds in new ways,” said Davis. “Chess is about patience, strategy, and discipline—skills that apply not only to the game but also to life.”
Chess 3000 offers assemblies, weekly training sessions, competitions, and opportunities to participate in local tournaments, with the goal of preparing students for competition opportunities outside of the school. Students sharpen their chess skills in a welcoming environment that fosters growth and belonging. The benefits extend well beyond the board: participants develop focus, perseverance, and creativity while also building friendships, mentorship connections, and a sense of community that supports them inside and outside the classroom. For schools, the program enriches curricula with a unique activity that enhances academic performance and personal development. For communities, it broadens access and representation in a sport that has historically lacked diversity, while preparing a new generation of thoughtful, capable leaders.