This fall, the game of kings takes center stage as Chess Fest 2025 brings together players of all ages and skill levels for a celebration of strategy, creativity, and community.

Success is rarely achieved alone; there are often people behind it. Behind every great leader, entrepreneur, or athlete is someone who guided them, believed in them and supported them. At Enroute 2 Success, we recognize that mentorship has a significant positive impact on players in both chess and golf- it’s a critical part of growth, development, and long-term success.

On Saturday night, our talented youth cast brought Breaking Barriers: The Story of Gloria Baylis to life for the second time, guided by the words of playwright Denée Rudder. After weeks of rehearsal, they carried Gloria’s story from Barbados through the United Kingdom and Montreal to the stage in Niagara Falls, tracing the landmark moments that changed Canadian history.

At EnRoute 2 Success, volunteers help make our programs and events possible. From setting up for a fundraiser to helping youth get ready for a golf lesson or making sure chess boards are ready on Wednesday nights, every role plays a part in creating positive experiences for our community.

Introducing youth to golf fosters physical health, cognitive development, emotional resilience, and career‑relevant life skills—benefits that translate into stronger school performance, workplace readiness, and long‑term success.

When you think of sports that help shape young people’s futures, golf may not be the first that comes to mind, but it should be. At Enroute 2 Success, we believe in using golf as a tool for empowerment, growth, and lifelong learning. We’ve seen firsthand how powerful this sport can be in developing not just skills for the course, but skills for life.

At Enroute 2 Success, our organization has a sole focus on helping youth grow and inhabit valuable life skills through our chess programs, golf programs and workshops. Thanks to your continued support, what began as a small initiative has grown into something bigger.

Born in Bridgetown, Barbados in 1929, Gloria grew up in a large family that believed education could open doors. At sixteen, she began working as a private teacher. When her employer refused to pay her, she took legal action and reached a settlement. It was a bold step for anyone, let alone a teenager, and an early sign of the determination that would shape her life.

In a world where young people are constantly navigating noise, pressure, and distractions, finding activities that truly nurture the mind, heart, and spirit is more important than ever. At Enroute 2 Success, we don’t just teach chess, we use it as a powerful tool for transformation.

At Enroute 2 Success, we believe every young mind deserves the chance to thrive—and sometimes, that journey starts with something as simple as a chessboard. This timeless game sharpens focus, fuels critical thinking, and builds confidence in students, opening doors in and beyond the classroom.