Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship Unveils 2026 Awardees, Empowering Young Chess Talent
Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship Announces 2026 Awardees
NEW YORK, NY – July 23, 2026 – The Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship (MACF), founded by the trailblazing Chess Grandmaster Maurice Ashley in collaboration with the US Chess Trust, has unveiled its 2026 class of recipients. Seven exceptional young players will share a total of $31,000 to aid their journey in competitive chess, covering essential expenses such as tournament fees, coaching, and equipment.
Now in its second year, the Fellowship continues to champion GM Ashley’s mission of broadening access and opportunity for talented youth, particularly addressing the underrepresentation of African Americans in the chess community. Alongside 2025 Fellow GM Brewington Hardaway, GM Ashley remains one of only two African Americans to hold the grandmaster title in the U.S.
“Welcoming our second class of Fellows marks an important step in the growth of this program,” said Ashley, who achieved his grandmaster title in 1999. “We are building more than a source of financial support. We are also creating a community around young players with the talent, discipline, and determination to reach the highest levels of the game.”
2026 Fellowship Recipients
| Player | Age | State | Award Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khabir Muhammad | 9 | North Carolina | $6,000 |
| Aviel Ndengang | 11 | Oklahoma | $6,000 |
| Dervin Kouyate | 11 | New York | $5,000 |
| Ayden Spellman | 12 | New York | $5,000 |
| Kaden Kassim Scott | 14 | Illinois | $5,000 |
| Maxwell Gachiri | 10 | New York | $2,000 |
| Nia Skerritt | 10 | New York | $2,000 |
This year’s class features the Fellowship’s first repeat recipient, Ayden Spellman, whose national rating surged by over 300 points in the past year, exemplifying the growth and dedication the Fellowship aims to nurture.
About the Fellowship
Administered by the US Chess Trust, the MACF provides funds strictly for approved chess-related expenses. Recipients are also encouraged to contribute back to the chess community, fostering a cycle of support for future generations. The Fellowship was initially funded by a $20,000 personal contribution from GM Ashley, with ongoing support from donors and sponsors vital for its sustainability.
Fellowship Highlights
- Financial Support: Covers essential costs such as coaching, tournament fees, travel, and equipment, allowing players to focus on honing their skills.
- Mentorship: Fellows receive guidance from GM Ashley and program advisers as they navigate the competitive chess landscape.
- Community: Participants connect with a global network of mentors, peers, and sponsors, enhancing their growth and opening doors to future opportunities.
Support the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship
The MACF invites sponsors and donors to contribute to its mission of empowering the next generation of chess talent. Donations can be made at US Chess Trust Donations.
Full application details for 2027 will be available on the US Chess Trust website in February 2027. For more information about the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship, visit MACF Information.
About Maurice Ashley
Maurice Ashley is a pioneering chess grandmaster, commentator, author, and innovator, recognized as the first African American to earn the grandmaster title. Born in St. Andrew, Jamaica, and raised in Brooklyn, he has introduced innovative formats to the game, including the Millionaire Chess Open and Clutch Chess. In 2016, he was inducted into the US Chess Hall of Fame. Learn more at mauriceashley.com.
As the chess community looks to the future, the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for aspiring young players, ensuring that the game continues to grow and diversify.