Poetic Checkmate: Power Moves is a dynamic fusion of competitive chess and spoken-word poetry centered around business strategy, ownership, empowerment, and community building.

This edition is about making intentional moves—on the board, in business, and in life.

From the chessboard to the microphone, participants embody the mindset of entrepreneurs, visionaries, and community leaders—calculated moves, disciplined thinking, bold execution, and unapologetic truth.

This is a community-centered event welcoming children, teens, elders, entrepreneurs, and families.

• No profanity, explicit sexual content, or graphic violence
   
• Powerful, thought-provoking expression is encouraged
   
• Language and imagery must remain respectful and accessible to all ages
   

The guiding theme is “Speak Life. Build Legacy. Make Power Moves.”

• Poems should uplift, inspire, educate, challenge, or empower
   
• Themes of ownership, business, resilience, leadership, and Black excellence are encouraged
   
• No hate speech, discrimination, or targeting of individuals or groups
   
• Respect fellow poets, chess players, the audience, and the spirit of the event
   

⏱ Maximum 3 minutes per performance
📱 Poets may use written notes, phones, or perform from memory
✍🏾 Original work is encouraged
✅ All performances must follow family-friendly and respect guidelines