Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalanithi
Hi Kalanithi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
What started as a hobby—teaching children how to play chess—soon grew into a passion and evolved into a vast community program dedicated to making a meaningful impact. I strive to use chess as more than just a game—it’s a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and social change.
My Academy has expanded to serve diverse communities, providing opportunities for young minds to develop critical thinking, discipline, and strategic skills. I started initiatives like Chess for Cure, not only to promote chess among female players but also raise awareness of women’s health, partnering with leading research institutions to support gynecologic oncology research and treatment.
Beyond the chessboard, I believe in second chances and the transformative power of mentorship. Our collaboration with the Ohio Department of Youth Services allows us to bring chess to juvenile correctional facilities, using the game to teach leadership, resilience, and problem-solving skills to young individuals preparing to reintegrate into society.
What began as a simple act of teaching has blossomed into a movement and I am hoping ,one that fosters growth, builds communities, and champions the limitless potential of chess to change lives in the future
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While my work has been fulfilling there are many bumps in this journey namely,
Overcoming Skepticism and Gaining Support-convincing parents, and the community that chess could be a powerful tool for education and personal development was not easy. Many viewed chess as just a game rather than a means to enhance critical thinking, discipline, and problem-solving.
Expanding Access and Reaching Underserved Communities-Bringing chess to those who need it most—especially youth in underserved communities and juvenile correctional facilities—has been a challenge. Funding, resources, and logistical hurdles makes t difficult to consistently provide equipment, training, and coaching. However, the generosity of volunteer coaches, we have been able to make a lasting impact.
Chess for Cure: Bridging Chess and Healthcare Awareness-The Chess for Cure initiative, which focuses on promoting chess among female players while supporting gynecologic oncology research, has been a unique challenge. Raising awareness about women’s health in a traditionally male-dominated chess space required creative approaches and strategic partnerships. Fortunately, working with organizations like Cleveland Clinic and research institutions has helped us grow this initiative into a meaningful movement.
Sustaining Growth and Impact-As our academy expanded, so did the need for funding, resources, and skilled coaches. Balancing program expansion while maintaining the quality of our initiatives has required continuous adaptation and innovation. From organizing tournaments to launching fundraising events like the Chess for Cure Gala, we’ve had to find new ways to sustain our mission and reach even more people.
Despite these challenges, every obstacle has been a stepping stone toward growth. The success stories of our students—whether it’s a young champion rising through the ranks, a juvenile facility participant finding hope through chess, or a female player gaining confidence—remind us why we started. Every move we make is part of a greater strategy to use chess as a force for good, and we are committed to continuing this journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am originally from Malaysia, and I came to the United States to pursue my studies in journalism. I graduated with a journalism degree from Point Park University and began my career working at WPXI and the University of Pittsburgh.
During my time in school, I met my best friend and life partner, Sanjevan Bagley. We got married and moved to Ohio, where we built our life together. I am blessed with two wonderful daughters, and being their mother is my greatest and most cherished achievement. My family has been my source of strength, and my husband has always encouraged me to pursue my passion.
That passion was teaching kids chess, a simple hobby that gradually grew into something much bigger. With his support, I founded Discovery Chess Academy, which has since evolved into a community-driven program dedicated to education, empowerment, and social change through chess.
What I Do & Specialization
At Discovery Chess Academy, we specialize in:
Chess Education: Teaching students of all ages and skill levels.
Tournament Organization: Hosting competitions to foster skill development and sportsmanship.
Community Impact Programs: Using chess as a tool for empowerment, discipline, and leadership development.
Our academy is known for integrating chess with social causes, making a lasting impact on communities.
What We Are Known For
Chess for Cure Initiative: A program that promotes female participation in chess while supporting gynecologic oncology research in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic and other research institutions.
Chess in Juvenile Detention Centers: Partnering with the Ohio Department of Youth Services to bring chess education to incarcerated youth, helping them develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and a sense of purpose as they prepare to reintegrate into society.
High-Quality Coaching & Mentorship: Many of our students have excelled in competitions, and we focus on both chess mastery and personal growth.
What I Am Most Proud Of
While I take pride in the growth of Discovery Chess Academy, my greatest accomplishment is being a mother and building a life with my husband of 25 years. The support and encouragement of my family have been the foundation of my journey.
Launching initiatives like Chess for Cure and working with underserved communities have been milestones in my career. Seeing how chess changes lives—whether by empowering a young girl, helping a juvenile facility participant find hope, or guiding a student toward their first tournament win—keeps me inspired every day.
What Sets Me Apart
Blending Journalism & Chess: My background in journalism has helped me tell stories, connect with people, and advocate for chess as a tool for change.
A Holistic Approach to Chess: Beyond teaching the game, I focus on how chess builds character, resilience, and confidence.
Passion for Social Impact: I believe chess should be inclusive and accessible, and I am dedicated to making it a force for good.
Through Discovery Chess Academy, I strive to make chess more than a game—it’s a pathway to education, empowerment, and a brighter future for all.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Chess is moving beyond just being a competitive sport—it’s becoming a global tool for education, empowerment, and mental agility. With the rise of technology, inclusivity, and new learning models, the game will continue to break barriers, inspire new generations, and create lasting social impact.
At Discovery Chess Academy, we are committed to staying ahead of these trends and ensuring that chess remains a transformative force in the years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://discoverychess.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discovery.chess.learning.acad/
- Facebook: Discovery chess learning center
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalanithi-kanapathy-bagley-4bb8a437
- Other: https://new.uschess.org/news/ladies-knight-jen-shahade-ft-kalanithi-kanapathy-bagley
