When the Hip-Hop Chess Federation (HHCF) ended its historic run in the late 2010s, it left behind more than just tournaments and press clippings — it left behind a blueprint for cultural empowerment through chess.
Now, that mission continues under a new banner:
🧠 What Is 64 Blocks?
Founded by Adisa Banjoko in 2023, 64 Blocks is the spiritual successor to the HHCF. It blends:
- Chess
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Mindfulness training
Its goal?
“To develop mental, physical, and emotional intelligence in underserved youth.”
🧱 Why the Name 64 Blocks?
The name is a clever nod to:
- The 64 squares of a chessboard
- The mental and environmental “blocks” many young people grow up on
- The idea of building life skills block by block, just like positional chess
🥋 What Makes 64 Blocks Unique?
While HHCF focused heavily on hip-hop culture, 64 Blocks zooms in on practical, character-building tools that help kids survive and thrive:
- Chess – Teaches long-term planning, focus, and emotional control
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – Builds physical confidence and discipline
- Meditation/Mindfulness – Centers emotional awareness and resilience
Together, it’s a mind-body-soul curriculum designed for maximum impact — especially in communities underserved by traditional education systems.
🎯 The Mission
“We want to reduce violence, build self-awareness, and teach young people how to think strategically about their lives — both on and off the mat.”
– Adisa Banjoko, Founder
🔥 The Legacy of HHCF Continues
Though the Hip-Hop Chess Federation retired in 2019, its values, methods, and vision live on through 64 Blocks.
It’s still:
- Rooted in culture
- Powered by strategy
- Focused on real-world transformation
And yes — chess is still at the center of it all.
✅ Want to Get Involved?
Follow the 64 Blocks movement at:
🌐 https://64blocks.org
https://www.instagram.com/real64blocks/
You’ll find event recaps, educational materials, and updates on their expanding school and community partnerships.
🧾 Final Thought
“When the board is life, the game is survival — and the moves must be conscious.”
Whether through HHCF or 64 Blocks, Adisa Banjoko’s vision remains clear:
Chess isn’t just a game. It’s a life skill.
