Our employee of the month is Aiah Aly from Philadelphia!
Aiah is an exceptional teacher, a natural leader, and an outstanding communicator. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to nurturing young minds truly set her apart. In the chess class, she does far more than teach strategy , she creates an environment where children feel valued, inspired, and empowered. Aiah is the foundation of the Pennsylvania team!
Aiah, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher!
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift from us.
Cheсk out our interview with Aiah below:
1. Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
I’m a first generation Egyptian American from Harrisburg, PA, and now proud to call Philadelphia home. I joined Chess Wizards as a rising junior attending Temple University and quickly found myself growing more invested—not just in teaching chess, but in the kids, the city, and the team. I recently became the Lead Instructor and Trainer for the Philly region, and I’m excited to keep building something meaningful here. Long-term, I hope to take what I’ve learned into global education work.
2. How long have you been teaching with Chess Wizards?
I started in February 2022, so it’s been over three years now. It’s wild to think about how much has changed and how much I’ve grown since that first class.
3. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
Patience and perspective. Every child comes in with a different story, energy, and way of seeing the world. The most important thing is to meet them where they are and remember that for many of them, this isn’t just chess—it’s a moment to feel seen and valued.
4. What is the most exciting experience you have had while playing or teaching chess?
Watching one of our youngest students completely shock everyone at a tournament by beating several older, more advanced players. The look on their face—equal parts stunned and proud—was priceless. Moments like that are why I love what I do.
5. How do you motivate your students to succeed?
I make success feel attainable and fun. Whether it’s earning Chess Wizards points, unlocking new strategies, or simply outsmarting an instructor during a lesson, I try to create moments where they feel like they know something special. That sense of power and progress really motivates them.
6. If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
I’d go abroad—probably to a developing country—and teach. With a TESL certification, I’d love to help kids learn practical skills that open up their futures. Teaching, mentoring, creating access…etc.
7. What’s your go-to technique for dealing with ‘handful students’?
Redirect the energy—don’t fight it. I love using group games like bughouse or team chess, and if a student needs a mental break, I’ll let them build chess towers or do a physical mini-challenge. The goal is to help them feel included without escalating tension.
8. What is an unusual place you have been to?
A remote mountain village where I ended up herding sheep for a day. No cell service, just fresh air, new faces, and a lot of bleating. It was humbling and unforgettable.
9. Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
I love painting and drawing—whenever I get the chance, I’ll zone out and just create. It’s a quiet passion that helps me recharge.
10. What’s your #1 teaching tip?
Make it fun—Laughter, imagination, and play go a long way in building trust and keeping kids engaged. If they’re having fun, they’re learning more than you think.
11. What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Chess Wizards?
Honestly, teaching kids chess is the most interesting thing I do—and I say that with pride. Outside of teaching, I help decorate and support the café my boyfriend recently opened. I’ve gotten really into creating little flower arrangements, organizing game nights, and helping bring the space to life. It’s become a fun and creative outlet—and another way I get to connect with people in the community.
12. If you saw a kangaroo and a chimpanzee playing chess what would you do? Who do you think would win?
I’d probably start taking bets! I guess if this were a reasonable situation I would take some sort of safety measure but hypothetically my money’s on the chimp—they’ve got the hand coordination and brainpower.
13. Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
Let’s be honest… both are a little overrated. I’d rather watch Into the Spider-Verse or something with more heart and animation flair.
14. What do you like most about working with Chess Wizards?
The people. The support, the collaboration, and the shared passion make every day feel purposeful. I’ve grown a lot here, and it’s because of the team around me helping me every step of the way! Thankful always <3