A Bermuda College student with an interest in chess will receive $5,000 each year for the next two years to assist with tuition, textbooks and other related fees, thanks to a new scholarship.

Kyah Richardson has been named as the inaugural recipient of the award.

He is a first-year college student enrolled in the Associate in Arts in Business Administration programme and active with playing chess with the Bermuda Chess Association.

The scholarship was created to support a student whose experience with chess reflects the discipline, strategic thinking and resilience the BCA seeks to encourage.

A graduate of The Berkeley Institute, Mr Richardson reflected in his application essay on the role chess has played in shaping his character and outlook.

He said: “Overall, chess has helped shape me into a more thoughtful, patient and resilient person. It has taught me to approach challenges with confidence, remain composed under pressure and always look for opportunities to improve.”

In addition to financial support, Mr Richardson will receive ongoing mentoring and networking opportunities through the BCA, as well as potential internship opportunities aligned with his chosen career path.

“We are grateful to Bermuda Chess Association for creating this meaningful new scholarship through Bermuda College Foundation,” said Kerry Judd, executive director of the foundation.

“This gift not only helps remove financial barriers for Kyah as he begins his studies at Bermuda College but also recognises the valuable life skills that chess can develop: strategic thinking, discipline, resilience and confidence.

“We are excited to see Kyah benefit from both the scholarship and the mentorship opportunities that will support his continued growth.”

Mark Flanagan, representing the Bermuda Chess Association, added: “The presentation of the chess scholarship to Kyah Richardson highlights the ultimate goal of the Bermuda chess pathway.

“This journey, integrated throughout Bermuda’s education system, allows students with strong analytical abilities to forge a clear path from primary, secondary and tertiary education directly into the workplace.”

He continued: “By mastering the game, students demonstrate essential real-world attributes such as critical thinking and effective decision-making.

“The BCA was incredibly impressed with Kyah’s exceptional abilities, particularly his capacity to showcase profound tactical and strategic thinking over the board.”