Kirkuk youth forum hosts chess tournament and art exhibition for World Youth Day

KIRKUK, Iraq — The Shorja Youth Forum organized a chess tournament and art exhibition in Kirkuk to mark World Youth Day, bringing together artists and competitors in a combined sports and cultural program. The event was held in partnership with the Kirkuk Directorate of Youth and Sports and the volunteer group Kainde li'l-Insaniyye. More than 15 artists from different age groups took part, displaying their work at individual stands while participants competed in chess matches. The activities were open to all age groups and both genders. Shaho Hurshid Nuri, founder of Kainde li'l-Insaniyye, said the aim was to support young people's talents and highlight their role in building society. She added that the team sought to provide a positive environment that keeps youth away from harmful behavior, regardless of whether officials were present. Shorja Center Director Diyar Mohammed noted that the program is held each year to mark World Youth Day on August 12. The event concluded with the distribution of participation certificates and awards to attendees.