About Luciana

Luciana Morales' passion for chess began in Lima, Peru, when she was just eight years old. Taught by her mother, a chess enthusiast, Luciana's curiosity turned into ambition after a summer camp with IM Mario Belli ignited her competitive spirit.

By the age of 13, she was already making history, winning national titles and Pan-American medals; in fact, she is a three-time Pan-American Youth Champion. Luciana represented Peru in Chess Olympiads and became the first Peruvian woman to qualify for the Women's World Chess Championship at the age of 16; the same year she earned the title of Woman International Master.

Luciana moved to the United States on a full scholarship to study at the University of Texas at Brownsville, where she obtained her bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree. Upon graduating, she worked in public relations for nonprofit organizations in Brownsville, TX.

Today, Luciana works with Chessable, the #1 site for chess e-learning, now part of Chess.com. She also collaborates with the Women in Chess Foundation, helping to expand opportunities for girls in the game. Beyond her organizational roles, Luciana blends her chess expertise with her love for education and storytelling. Currently, she is working on her first children's book: an introduction to chess for little ones based on her very own story.

Luciana continues to reside in Brownsville, TX, where she aims to transform the chess landscape by expanding access to high-quality instruction and creating new pathways for aspiring players. Drawing on her experience developing chess talent at the highest levels, Luciana is committed to bringing world-class chess education to the children of this vibrant community.