Queen’s Advice Corner | The Best Thing You Can Do in Chess Isn’t Winning

Meet WIM Isabelle Ning

In this episode of our podcast, Zara interviews WIM Isabelle Ning of New Zealand about her journey from young chess prodigy to international competitor. Isabelle shares insights on earning her titles, representing New Zealand, overcoming challenges, and inspiring the next generation of girls in chess through hard work, confidence, and perseverance.

Queen’s Advice Corner | The Best Thing You Can Do in Chess Isn’t Winning

In this episode of Queen’s Advice Corner, Zara Majid reflects on choosing not to play in the National Championship and how that decision became a lesson in leadership and giving back. From balancing IB exams to supporting her students through Queens United Chess, she shares why creating opportunities for others can be just as powerful as competing yourself. A thoughtful reminder that true impact isn’t just about winning, it’s about inspiring the next generation.

Meet WFM Laksshana Deepak

In this episode of our podcast, Zara speaks with WFM Laksshana Deepak about her journey from youth tournaments to earning her WFM title after an undefeated run at the North American Youth Championship. They discuss her rapid rating growth, representing Canada internationally, and how leadership roles in community chess have shaped her development. A powerful conversation about ambition, service, and impact beyond the board.

What Becoming National Champion Really Took

In this episode of Queen’s Advice Corner, Zara Majid reflects on what it truly took to become the Cayman Islands National Female Chess Champion. Beyond the title and trophy, she shares the unseen reality: balancing the IB Diploma Programme (HL Math, Physics, and Chemistry), serving as President of the Cayman Islands’ first-ever Rotary Central Interact Club, leading within Protect Our Future, mentoring through Queens of Tomorrow and Checkmate Betul, and still committing to late-night chess preparation. From bouncing back after a 4.5/9 result at the CAC Youth Chess Festival to pushing through exhaustion, self-doubt, and academic pressure, this episode reveals the discipline, resilience, and consistency behind the success.

Queen’s Advice Corner | Bad Tournaments Happen - Here’s How to Bounce Back Stronger:

In this episode of Queen’s Advice Corner, Zara Majid reflects on a tough tournament at the CAC Youth Chess Festival in Puerto Rico, where she finished with 4.5/9. She talks honestly about why bad tournaments are normal, how they don’t define your ability, and shares practical steps to bounce back stronger. This episode is a reassuring reminder that growth in chess and in life comes from resilience, reflection, and never giving up.