Help Black Youth Chess Champion Travel to China

Zahir Muhammad Wins DC Chess Championship!


After winning the DC Chess Championship for the second year in a row, I have decided to travel abroad this summer seeking further chess and foreign language training. I have studied both Chess and Chinese from the age of four years old.  

As a 16 year old honor roll student, I carry a full load of academic and leadership responsibilities. In my desire to be well-rounded, I play basketball at the Boys and Girls Club in Southeast DC, and am trained weekly with the Mayor's Youth Leadership institute. I also volunteer at multiple schools teaching chess. What is most important to me however, is continuing my longstanding endeavors in chess and foreign language.

This summer I hope to attend the Castle Chess Exposure Program where multiple masters and grandmasters will be there to help train and hone my skills. With your help I will also travel to Beijing, China with the GoAbroad China program where I would be studying at the Beijing Language and Culture University. 

In 2016 I placed in the Top 10 at the K-12 9th grade National Championships.  Over a span of three (3) years , I have won nine (9) championship tournaments including the Mid Atlantic and Greater Mid Atlantic High School Championships, and back-to-back DC State titles. I have played in national tournaments in Florida, Virginia, Wisconsin, California, and Delaware against some of the best competition the United States has to offer. I even got the opportunity to play in Nassau, Bahamas, and defeat the Vice Presidents of the Bahamian Chess Federation, Chappell Whyms and Dr. David Sands. 

As the oldest of four children, I believe wholeheartedly in setting a good standard. I believe that young Black men can be more than just entertainers and athletes.  With your donation I will be able to take my talents to the next level. I want to return back to my community as an example of black excellence, motivating and encouraging other young students to reach their full potential.

Program monies are due by May 3rd..hope you can contribute today!!

Thank you.

"Introduced to Chess at the age of 3, Ward 7 Teen Now Holds National Ranking." 

"DC Teen Reaching New Heights as Nationally Ranked Chess Player." 

"It's Chess Championship Time!"