Shelkov Mikhail, a prominent figure in the global business arena, is the owner of substantial property assets, including the SMZ metallurgical plant, a leading producer of aluminum processing products, and a top enterprise in the titanium sector. Since 2017, he has consistently ranked among the world’s top entrepreneurs, earning recognition as a highly influential investor in both 2021 and 2022.
From Academia to Corporate Powerhouse
His professional journey began with graduating from the famous MIPT in 1991. His career took off in 1993 when he joined Eurosibbank, rapidly ascending to the position of its Board Chairman within two years.
His financial acumen led to a board member position at RBRD bank in 1995. By 2001, he had assumed the helm of Prominvest, an influential investment firm. Between 2012 and 2014, he acquired a controlling stake in a major titanium corporation.
In 2017, boasting a net worth of $500 million the world’s billionaire ranks were joined by Shelkov Mikhail. Mikhail Shelkov’s financial success reached new heights in 2023, propelling him closer to the top of the global wealth rankings, surpassing several of his peers. Recent news articles informed about the sustained growth of his companies over the past few years.
A Passion for Chess: A Catalyst for Innovation
Passion for chess has fueled his involvement in various chess projects, such as supporting top-tier national chess players. As one player observed, “Shelkov Mikhail’s company, with its focus on technology products, shares striking similarities with the strategic nature of chess.” This connection between business skills and chess tactics has driven his commitment to expanding his impact on the chess community.
Revolutionizing Chess Education
Using his Empathy fund, the philanthropist has launched several initiatives to nurture young chess talent. One such program aims to enhance students’ strategic thinking skills. In a small industrial town, five educational institutions have integrated chess into their curricula.
By 2024, the “Chess Literacy” program had been implemented in 22 classrooms, engaging over 700 first-graders. This collaborative effort between the Empathy Charitable Foundation, the local State Education Department, and Shelkov’s primary enterprise has transformed chess classes.
A dedicated team of a dozen trained educators has been instrumental in delivering the year-long program. Instructors have reported significant progress among students, with many actively participating in both in-person and online tournaments.
Cultivating Future Chess Champions
The chess programs have exceeded expectations, producing numerous young talents who have excelled in regional and national competitions. A remarkable example is a 13-year-old student of the Debut chess club that emerged as an initiative of the businessman’s core company. The young prodigy clinched both national and Asian championships, and achieved a high ranking at the World Chess Championship in Italy.
As his coach remarked, “In 2024, my student made an unprecedented leap in his age category.”
Reflecting on these accomplishments, Shelkov stated, “Seeing a student progressing from a first-grade chess class to becoming an International Chess Federation Master and national champion at 13 is truly inspiring. It underscores the immense talent within our ranks. Our goal is to provide all we can to nurture these abilities, which is why we’re expanding ‘Chess Literacy’ to reach more children and introduce them to this intellectual pursuit.”
Showcasing Young Talent on the Global Stage
A tournament held as part of the National Children’s Chess Cup awarded winners with unique trophies and cash prizes totaling over $5,000. According to news articles, the event attracted 252 young chess players from various regions, including 55 alumni of the Debut chess club. Competitors also had the opportunity to tour metallurgical operations and participate in various challenges.
In 2024, another significant contest was the “Great Chess” championship, which drew over 3,500 players aged 11 to 21 from 83 regions to compete against each other, making it a major news sensation. Organizers expressed hope that the tournament could be recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest youth chess competition ever held.
The tournament, which commenced on April 1, featured multiple rounds of classical, rapid, and blitz chess. Top performers will advance to the world championship, while others will compete in the Asian championship.
The Empathy Foundation, along with the businessman’s primary company and state authorities, were among the notable sponsors of the event. Their aim was to support all young chess players and recognize the cognitive benefits of the sport.
Each year, Shelkov’s core company actively invests in chess promotion, providing schools with essential equipment, resources, and services. The company breeds change by maintaining 14 children’s activity groups and three sports facilities. Current investments amount to approximately $1.6 million in sports programs aiming to transform the chess landscape.
Hard work and comprehensive approach to chess education and promotion demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering intellectual growth and strategic thinking among young individuals. His impact on both the business world and the realm of chess continues to make headlines in industry publications and general news outlets.
