On World Chess Day, we're celebrating more than just a game. We're celebrating the mentors, friendships, life lessons, and opportunities that chess creates for young people in Petit Trou.

One of those mentors is Dupiche Max-Carland Sobiesky, a 21-year-old university student and chess instructor who has become an important part of Locally Haiti's community chess program.

A Lifelong Passion for Chess

Dupiche grew up in Carrefour, Haiti, where chess was more than an extracurricular activity—it was part of his education.

"Chess was a normal subject for us in school," he explained. "It was an obligation."

What began as a required subject quickly became a passion.

"The best part is meeting other players," he said. "We may not know each other before the game, but we meet on the chessboard. After the game, we talk, learn from each other, and sometimes become friends."

Finding a New Home in Petit Trou

In late 2025, increasing insecurity and the humanitarian crisis in Port-au-Prince forced Dupiche and his family to make a difficult decision.

Concerned about the worsening situation, his mother decided it would be safer for the family to relocate to Petit Trou, where their extended family has deep roots, making Dupiche and his family one of the more than 1.4 million people who have been forced to flee Port-au-Prince.

Although Dupiche's life had been centered in Carrefour, he was already familiar with Petit Trou through visits to his grandparents during school vacations. The move was a major transition, but it also led him to an unexpected opportunity.

Rediscovering His Passion

When Dupiche first arrived in Petit Trou, he wasn’t hopeful about continuing his deep relationship with chess.

That changed when he met Joseph, one of Locally Haiti's staff members and a fellow chess enthusiast. Joseph invited Dupiche to visit the community chess club that meets at the local library.

Before long, Dupiche was helping coach students.

"Joseph saw that I was a serious player the first time we played and suggested that I come assist with coaching," he recalled. "It has been a very good experience. Without this chance, I might have let my playing slip because I wasn't practicing face-to-face anymore. Now I feel like I'm doing for others, exactly what my coach used to do for me."

Lessons Beyond the Chessboard

For Dupiche, chess teaches far more than strategy.

"Chess taught me never to give up," he said. "Even when you are in a difficult position, there is still something you can do. There is still hope."

He also believes the game teaches players to think ahead and prepare for challenges before they arrive.

"Chess teaches you to anticipate what is coming and have one or two moves ready for what comes next."

Those lessons—perseverance, patience, critical thinking, and problem-solving—extend far beyond the chessboard and into everyday life.

Why Chess Matters

In Petit Trou, opportunities for structured extracurricular activities are limited. Programs like the chess club provide young people with a safe, engaging environment where they can learn, grow, and connect with others.

"Chess helps young people develop their knowledge," Dupiche explained. "It helps you think, remember, and learn. It is also a social game. Chess helps you make new friends."

Today, students from multiple schools gather regularly to practice, compete, and build their skills together.

As an instructor, Dupiche hopes each student gains confidence and develops the tools needed to succeed both in school and in life.

"My goal is to give each chess player a greater chance of success," he said.

Looking Toward the Future

In addition to coaching, Dupiche is currently pursuing a degree in Administration Science at Université Nouvelle Vision in Petit Trou. As a first-year university student, he is excited about the opportunities ahead.

He also hopes to see the chess program continue to grow, and he and Joseph are currently working on a chess instructional booklet in Kreyol. (All of the booklets they’ve been able to find so far are in French.)

One question he often asks is whether students will have opportunities to participate in additional tournaments and compete against teams from other communities. It's a reminder that the young people involved in the program are eager not only to learn, but also to challenge themselves and expand their horizons.

A Message of Gratitude

When asked what message he would like to share with supporters of Locally Haiti, Dupiche's answer was simple.

He wanted to say thank you.

Thank you for helping provide opportunities for young people. Thank you for supporting programs that create space for learning, friendship, and personal growth. And thank you for helping him rediscover a passion that continues to shape his life.

This World Chess Day, we celebrate Dupiche and all of the students, volunteers, and community members who make our chess program possible. Through every lesson, tournament, and friendly match, they are proving that a simple game can open the door to confidence, connection, and opportunity.