So, let us wage a global struggle against illiteracy, poverty and terrorism and let us pick up our books and pens. They are our most powerful weapons. — Malala Yousafzai, youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner in her speech at the United Nations in 2013 on her 16th birthday.
At the beginning of 2022 is a good time to reflect seriously on the words above. Malala Yousafzai has inspired millions with her advocacy of girls’ education.
In Guyana, we have observed the rise of women’s participation in chess tournaments in juxtaposition to what previously obtained. Immersing oneself in chess is an adventure in academia. Some of us will become medical or legal professionals, teachers, successful businessmen and women, engineers or even chess professionals. Nations may have listened to Malala’s voice and understood the inner workings of her mind.
