Mind sports constitute an essential part of a young person's development.
The 11-year-old from Bonaire, one of several participants in the Youth World Championships sponsored by FMJD
Draughts is a discipline with straightforward rules, yet it demands exceptional skill and dedication to achieve true mastery. We believe that young individuals who engage in draughts, even if they do not attain the highest level of proficiency, will embody our core values: fair and noble competition on equal terms.
This sport does not require significant financial resources, costly equipment, or even perfect health to succeed. Guided by these principles, the FMJD is committed to supporting those who wish to participate in draughts. We provide educational materials in multiple languages and organise online tournaments, enabling individuals to compete without incurring substantial costs.
Engagement in draughts promotes meaningful use of time through training and competition. For young people, and indeed participants of all ages, it provides a purposeful activity that diverts attention from unproductive online habits or harmful behaviours such as substance misuse.
Despite operating with limited resources, we actively support various countries by supplying draughts equipment. Furthermore, through our "Youth World Championships for All" initiative, we sponsor three young players annually from three different countries (rotating each year), enabling their participation when financial constraints would otherwise prevent it.
This programme inspires others, demonstrating that involvement in draughts can offer opportunities for international travel and competition with peers from around the world.
Our commitment to supporting young players extends beyond just providing equipment and tournament opportunities. We believe in creating lasting connections and memories through our various initiatives, whether it's through gifts, equipment donations, or the chance to compete on the world stage.
These moments of joy and achievement serve as inspiration for future generations of draughts players, showing that the FMJD is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of the sport across all continents.