Every meaningful journey starts with a first move. For me, that first move was chess. What began as a simple after-school activity slowly became a training ground for how I think, learn, compete, and lead. Chess taught me to stay patient, think ahead, make decisions under pressure, and learn from mistakes instead of being discouraged by them. Over time, the game became more than competition. It became a way to understand strategy, discipline, and resilience. Traveling to tournaments, working with different coaches, and facing stronger players helped me realize that real growth often happens outside your comfort zone. Those lessons eventually reached beyond the chessboard. In school, I started connecting chess to leadership, entrepreneurship, public speaking, and problem-solving. Whether I was building a club, exploring a business idea, or learning how to communicate better, I kept seeing the same truth: success comes from preparation, courage, and the willingness to take the next step. I have learned that leadership does not begin when someone gives you a title. It begins when you notice an opportunity, take responsibility, and decide to act. Chess taught me that every move matters. Life has taught me that waiting for the perfect moment can keep you from starting at all. The board is set. The first move is yours.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everyday life, I learned an important lesson: challenges can create opportunities. Chess became my way to stay connected and continue growing. Through online tournaments, I improved my skills and earned over $2,000 in prize money. When I learned that a local chess club was struggling to survive, I chose to donate all of my winnings to help keep it open. That experience changed my perspective on leadership. I realized that success is most meaningful when it benefits others. Inspired by that idea, my brother Neev and I teamed up with other young chess players to launch a nonprofit focused on education, leadership, and community impact. We organized programs, events, and learning opportunities while balancing school and our own activities. Building something meaningful at a young age wasn't always easy, but every challenge taught us valuable lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and perseverance. Today, the lessons I learned through chess continue to guide me. I believe leadership isn't about age—it's about taking initiative, serving others, and having the courage to start.