BLOOM Chess Club: Learn. Play. Connect.

Come for the chess. Stay for the community.

Bloom Chess Club is a warm, casual, and welcoming space for anyone who loves chess — or has always wanted to try it. This is not a tournament. There are no rankings, no pressure, and no need to be an expert. Whether you're picking up a chess piece for the very first time, returning to the game after years away, or just looking for someone to play with regularly, you belong here.

Chess is special because you don't need to speak the same language to play. It's a beautiful way to meet and connect with people from all over the world.

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced player, join us for a relaxed evening of chess, conversation, and community.

Each session includes:

1. A beginner-friendly learning segment with tips, strategies, and opportunities to ask questions
2. Casual chess games for all skill levels
3. Opportunities to meet new people and build connections
4. Guidance and coaching from experienced chess players

Event Details:
📅 Every two weeks
🕖 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
📍 7 Ricketts Rd, St. John's
🎟️ Registration Required | (Waitlist Available)

No experience is required. Come for the full session or drop in when you can. Chess boards, coffee, and snacks are provided!

New to the game or looking to sharpen your skills? Chess instructor Vimal Simha will be there to coach you.

A big thank you to the Newfoundland and Labrador Chess Association for their support with this initiative.

Bloom – A Free Wellness and Community Integration Initiative for Newcomers in Newfoundland and Labrador
Bloom supports your well-being, connection, and meaningful integration at any stage of your journey as you build your new life here.
Brought to you by Amal Unite & Empower, with generous support from IRCC, the North Pine Foundation, and JIG (Department of Job, Immigration & Growth)

🔔 Important: One-Time Participant Form (Required)
To help us continue offering free wellness activities to the community, we ask all participants to complete a short one-time information form. This is a requirement from our funders and helps us keep Bloom running at no cost to you. The information is confidential and used only for reporting and planning.
👉 Please fill out the form before attending an activity: https://qx0bg.share.hsforms.com/2QkdtyUk1Rnq6VA5_MEBIZg

If the form isn't completed in advance, you may not be able to participate—so thank you for taking a moment to support this important step.

Participant Expectations and Code of Conduct:
To help create a safe and welcoming space for everyone, we ask all participants to:

1. Be respectful of others' boundaries and comfort levels
2. Ask for consent before taking photos or recordings
3. Avoid personal or intrusive questions
4. Respect privacy and shared experiences
5. Follow guidance from facilitators and staff

We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment. Bloom reserves the right to remove participants from a session if these guidelines are not followed. By registering, participants agree to these guidelines.

Scent Free Policy:
Some participants have strong allergies to perfumes, colognes, and other scented products. To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, please avoid wearing strong perfumes, colognes, or heavily scented lotions to class. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

📸 Photography & Video Notice:
Photos or videos may be taken during Bloom events to help promote our programming. By attending, you consent to this use. If you'd prefer not to be photographed, please let a staff member know when you arrive.

Feel free to reach out to us at bloom@amalnl.ca for more information or any inquiries you may have.