Agustín Teglia: Using Chess to Transform Communities
Agustín Teglia, a sociologist, discovered the power of chess to combat violence and marginality. Through workshops in Buenos Aires neighborhoods and juvenile detention centers, he integrated children and teenagers from vulnerable areas into the game.
Breaking Stereotypes and Fostering Integration
Despite the stereotype that chess is only for the elite, Teglia found it to be a pedagogical tool that fosters group dynamics and integration. By simplifying the rules, he made chess accessible to all ages, even starting with five-year-old children in low-income areas.
Chess as a Tool for Development
Teglia emphasizes chess as a playful activity that enhances active attention and aids in learning processes. He works with children diagnosed with attention deficit, viewing it not as a flaw but as a strategy to navigate the world.
Socializing and Concentration
Chess workshops not only teach the game but also help participants manage time and develop problem-solving skills. The game acts as a common code to form groups, allowing participants of different ages and levels to interact and learn from each other.
Emotions and Conflict Resolution
Chess sessions bring out emotions and teach participants to follow rules, resolve conflicts, and socialize. Participants often relate the pieces to their own lives, creating a deeper connection to the game.
Expanding the Reach of Chess Workshops
Teglia aims to spread chess workshops across different institutions and provinces, believing in the transformative power of the game. He has even authored a guide to help others set up and sustain similar workshops, emphasizing the impact on participants’ concentration and academic performance.
Empowering Through Chess
Chess, for Teglia, is not just a game but a tool for empowerment and personal growth. By making chess accessible to all, he envisions a future where the game can positively impact communities nationwide.