Maurice Ashley: Chess Grandmaster

  • First African-American Chess Grandmaster, Analyst, Commentator and Emcee
  • Made history in 1999 when he became the first African-American chess grandmaster
  • Provides dynamic live tournament coverage of world-class chess competitions and matches
  • Shares how chess principles and strategies can be applied to improve business practices and assist with personal growth

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: Brooklyn, Brooklyn
  • **Fee range: $20,001 - $35,000

Keynote Topics

Chess is often known as a thinking game. In order to beat your opponent, you must step into their shoes and think about how they would think.

In Maurice’s session, he will show you how to transfer the chess move thought process and adapt that same way of thinking into your own business and life.

This fascinating session will help get your brain thinking in ways you never expected to use.

Though most people are satisfied with aspiring to mastery, chess players aim beyond the merely excellent and seek the level of the highly exceptional.

In this session, allow a world-renowned chess Grandmaster to show you the powerful keys to taking your business and your life into the rarified air that many desire but few ever achieve.

The decision-making process is central to the design and execution of anything. Chess as a guide to the decision making process.

Chess-based guidelines on improving your position that will increase the possibility of success by:

  • Weighing the possibilities and possible outcomes
  • Prioritizing
  • Looking for opportunities and knowing when to stop
  • Using the power of intuition
  • Making the most of your strengths

Maurice Ashley made history in 1999 when he became the first African-American chess grandmaster. He is a three-time national championship coach, author of Chess for Success: Using an Old Game to Build New Strengths in Children and Teens, ESPN commentator, iPhone app designer, puzzle inventor, and motivational speaker. Maurice is well known for providing dynamic live […]

Maurice Ashley made history in 1999 when he became the first African-American chess grandmaster. He is a three-time national championship coach, author of Chess for Success: Using an Old Game to Build New Strengths in Children and Teens, ESPN commentator, iPhone app designer, puzzle inventor, and motivational speaker.

Maurice is well known for providing dynamic live tournament coverage of world-class chess competitions and matches. His high-energy, unapologetic, and irreverent commentary combines Brooklyn street smarts with professional ESPN-style sports analysis. He has covered every class of elite event, including the World Chess Championships, the US Chess Championships, the Grand Chess Tour, and the legendary “man vs. machine” matches between Garry Kasparov and IBM’s Deep Blue.

Maurice Ashley | Motivational Speaker

Traveling the world as an ardent spokesperson for the many character-building effects of chess, Maurice shares how chess principles and strategies can be applied to improve business practices and assist with personal growth. Maurice also acts as a master of ceremonies and inspirational speaker at business conferences and high-class chess events.

Maurice Ashley has received multiple community service awards from city governments, universities, and community groups for his work. In recognition of his immense contribution to the game, he was inducted into the US Chess Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Brooklyn Technical High School Hall of Fame in 2018.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Talent resources available for download

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (9)
Strolling Tables

Strolling tables and champagne dresses have emerged as innovative and captivating elements that elevate the ambiance of conference events, providing a unique blend of entertainment and functionality. These interactive and visually stunning features offer an unforgettable experience for attendees, making them a popular choice for event planners looking to create a memorable and engaging atmosphere. […]

  • Travels from: Nationwide
  • Speciality Acts
  • (24)
Patricia Arquette

Actress, writer, and activist Patricia Arquette has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the realm of social advocacy. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Arquette has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades for her compelling portrayals on screen. From her Oscar-winning performance in “Boyhood” to her Emmy-winning role in “Medium,” she […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Empowerment Speakers
  • (20)
Jason Bevan

Jason Bevan is a globally recognized expert in creative innovation, storytelling, and marketing, renowned for his role as Head of Creative Development at Warner Bros. Studios. Based in London, Jason worked on some of the world’s biggest film franchises, pioneering groundbreaking marketing strategies that propelled blockbuster movies to international success. His expertise in engaging audiences […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Creativity Speakers
  • (52)
Monica Sheri Scott

Monica Sheri Scott is a catalyst for transformation, shaping environments where individuals are inspired to elevate their perspectives and align their daily practices for tangible progress. With nearly two decades of leadership experience, Monica has honed her expertise in mentoring leaders, cultivating teams, nurturing culture, and empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of both personal […]

  • Travels from: Edmond, OK
  • Culture Speakers
  • (74)
  • (7)

Greg R. Baird has a wonderful journey encompassing 31 years of experience as a lecturer, educator, content creator and LGBTQ+ civil rights advocate. He brings a blend of heart, humor, and passion to his engaging and inspiring speeches.  Booking, Greg is educational and inspiring for your next event. Greg addresses diverse audiences on themes such […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Allyship Speakers
  • (22)
  • (4)
Tracey Spicer

Tracey Spicer is a prominent figure in Australian journalism, celebrated for her impactful work as a journalist, broadcaster, author, and advocate for gender equality. With multiple Walkley Awards to her name, Spicer’s career spans across various media platforms, including television, radio, and print. Beyond her journalistic achievements, she is renowned for her advocacy efforts, particularly […]

  • Travels from: Sydney, NSW
  • Journalism Speakers
  • (20)
  • (3)
Eva Saha

Eva Saha stands at the forefront of professional hosting, renowned for her exceptional command of audiences both in person and virtually. With a career spanning multiple platforms, Eva’s journey to becoming a sought-after host, emcee, and moderator is marked by her innate warmth, commanding presence, and a natural ability to connect with diverse audiences. Eva’s […]

  • Travels from: Chicago, IL
  • Business Emcees
  • (40)
Angela Perez Baraquio 1

Angela Perez Baraquio stands as a beacon of inspiration and achievement, having etched her name in the annals of history as the First Asian-American Miss America. Crowned in 2001, Angela’s journey from being Miss Hawaii 2000 to attaining the prestigious title of Miss America serves as a testament to perseverance, cultural pride, and the pursuit […]

  • Travels from: Anaheim, CA
  • Hispanic Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel