Founder/President
Choco Chen
Choco is a senior at Fair Lawn High School. His chess journey began in first grade through an after-school program. Ever since then, he has developed a strong interest in this game, participating in numerous local, state, and national-level tournaments. He has been the president of his high school chess club since freshman year. Under his leadership, the club has been involved in various outreach programs. Chess has sharpened Choco’s focus, memory, and pattern recognition, and helped him become an accomplished musician. After achieving a perfect score on the SAT math section, he began tutoring his peers, helping them navigate challenges and build confidence.
Founder/Vice President/Webmaster
Jody Chen
Jody is a sophomore at Bergen County Academies (BCA), a prestigious magnet high school in New Jersey, where he studies in the Academy for Technology and Computer Science. He became a private chess tutor at the age of 10 after achieving success in numerous state-grade-level championships. His teaching style is caring and adaptive, always challenging his students to advance—just as he pushes himself. Under Jody’s guidance, many of his students have become rated chess players. Jody has a passion for public service. He recently graduated from Youth Police Academy in Bergen County, NJ. In addition to math and chess, he also tutors ESL students through his school club.
Central Asia Regional Director
Aktan Beishekeev
Aktan Beishekeev is a senior at School #61, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, passionate about education equity and youth empowerment through strategic thinking. Inspired by the power of chess to build confidence, focus, and problem-solving skills, Aktan joined The Chess Bros to bring free, high-quality chess instruction to underserved communities. With deep roots across Central Asia and a regional outlook, Aktan brings strong leadership, vision, and a collaborative spirit to every initiative. He sees chess as more than a game—it’s a powerful tool to spark curiosity, build community, and open doors for young minds throughout the region.
Central Asia - Kyrgyzstan Director
Zhanat Kurmanbekov
Zhanat Kurmanbekov is a high school freshman with exceptional talent in mathematics. He is a Silver Medalist in both the National and Republican Olympiads of Kyrgyzstan and has competed in prestigious international competitions, including the Al-Khwarizmi Olympiad. Beyond academics, Zhanat enjoys music—playing piano and guitar—and unwinds with PS5. He’s passionate about connecting with kids and dedicated to giving back to his community. Through his involvement with The Chess Bros, he strives to make a meaningful impact by promoting the benefits of chess to students in rural areas of Kyrgyzstan, helping them build critical thinking skills and confidence for a brighter future.
Central Asia - Kazakhstan Director
Alier Chinetov
Alier is currently studying at the Kazakh-German University in Almaty. Outside academics, he is passionate about music and plays the guitar. He believes that chess—like music—is a beautiful blend of logic and creativity. Both require focus, rhythm, and the courage to take bold moves. Through Chess Bros, He is excited to bring chess education to more young people across Central Asia and help build a community where thinking, learning, and passion come together.
Asia Pacific Program Coordinator
Jamie Chang
Jamie is a high school freshman with a creative spirit and a strong sense of entrepreneurship. She’s a natural people person, always eager to connect and collaborate. An accomplished swimmer and all-around athlete, Jamie brings energy and determination to everything she does.
East Asia - Taiwan Director
Jaden Chang
Jaden is an 8th grader with a natural talent for STEM. He enjoys tackling challenging math problems and exploring the world of science—especially computer science and coding. A strategic thinker, Jaden is also passionate about chess, where he combines logic, foresight, and creativity to outplay his opponents. Outside the classroom, he’s a strong athlete who excels in cross country and once completed a 10km bike ride at just 7 years old. Known for his confidence and integrity, Jaden isn’t afraid to speak up for himself and stands up for his friends when it counts.