Bronx natives Chris Johnson and Abdul Sulaiman Jr. fulfilled a long-time dream with the opening of their flagship chess center in the Soundview neighborhood on September 23, 2024. The Project Pawn Learning Center offers chess education, tournaments, and various activities for children and families.
Having grown up as neighbors and chess teammates in River Park Towers, Johnson and Sulaiman Jr. have transitioned their passion for chess into a successful career through Project Pawn. The organization currently employs 20 chess instructors in 40 schools across the city, with hopes of expanding their impact with the new center.
Located at Soundview and Gildersleeve Avenues, the center boasts 16 tables with chess boards, TVs, a lounge, and a striking black and white mural created by local artist Jasminia Jolie. Johnson expressed that the space is not only meant for chess enthusiasts but also as a community hub for various events in an area lacking entertainment options.
Council Member Amanda Farías, present at the opening, emphasized the importance of providing skill-building opportunities like chess in the community. She highlighted the entrepreneurial journey of Johnson and Sulaiman Jr. as an inspiration for young people, showcasing nontraditional career paths.
Assembly Member Landon Dais, a chess enthusiast, recognized the cognitive benefits of learning chess at a young age and praised programs like Project Pawn for their potential to positively impact Bronx youth. The surge in chess popularity, fueled by media exposure like “The Queen’s Gambit,” has led to increased interest in the game, making the timing ideal for the center’s launch.
Johnson, a long-time chess instructor, noted the shift in perception towards chess in educational settings, enabling Project Pawn to meet the rising demand for chess programs. The realization of their dream to open a center aligns perfectly with the growing interest in the game, creating a space for both learning and community engagement.
Sulaiman Jr., while no longer pursuing a competitive chess career, finds fulfillment in mentoring youth and witnessing their improvement in the game. The focus on youth development and skill-building remains at the core of Project Pawn’s mission, reflecting the founders’ commitment to empowering the next generation.
For those interested in learning more about Project Pawn and the offerings at the Soundview center, additional information can be found on their website and Instagram page. The center aims to serve as a catalyst for chess education and community engagement in the Bronx, bridging the gap in entertainment options and providing a platform for skill development.
As the chess community continues to grow, initiatives like Project Pawn play a vital role in nurturing talent, fostering strategic thinking, and creating a sense of community among players of all ages. The launch of the flagship center marks a significant milestone for Johnson, Sulaiman Jr., and the Bronx community, signaling a new chapter in the promotion of chess education and youth empowerment.
