Get Mahj'n...It's Good For You
History of Mahjong
At Mahj in the City, we teach with heart, humor, and deep respect—for the game, for its roots, and for the connections it creates. Co-founded by best friends Ashley Sigmon and Leigh Young in Charlotte, NC, our mission honors the Chinese origins of Mahjong as a community-centered tradition—a gathering space where laughter, love, and legacy are shared across generations.
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Our Story
We first learned to play American Mahjong together and quickly caught the Mahj Bug! When we realized Charlotte lacked a fun, welcoming space where everyone could learn the game, we created one ourselves—and Mahj in the City was born.
Whether you're brand new to the tiles or looking to sharpen your strategy, we make learning feel like a party—with deep roots. We’ve taught thousands of students, helping them rediscover connection in a fast-paced world.
Mahjong is multigenerational, mentally stimulating, and endlessly joyful—just like the communities we’re building.
Nowadays, we all spend so much time focused on physical wellness and caring for others that we often forget to care for our minds. Mahjong is THE brain game that keeps you sharp, social, and smiling.
Based in Charlotte but traveling far and wide, we offer beginner classes, advanced workshops, open play sessions, and our signature creation: the Bambird Scramble, a growing local league expanding into new cities. We bring the fun and the knowledge—wherever you are.
In a time when everyone’s focused on wellness and balance, we believe Mahjong is more relevant than ever. It strengthens minds, fosters real-world connection, and honors a vibrant cultural legacy.
Let’s play—and keep the tradition alive.
We currently offer a range of class options. You can Get Your Mahj'On with a group class hosted monthly in our homes, or schedule a private group in your home (or location of your choosing). Once you know you've gotten the hang of it, come and practice your skills at Mahj Money Night - where you pay to play and win.
Meet The Team
Charlotte
KB
MARGO
Margo hails from just outside Washington DC.
She has a background in art, with a masters degree in Art and Education from Columbia University.
She moved to Charlotte in 2019 and is married with two kids: Rich (5) and Lottie (4).
She met Leigh through her Tennis team in 2023 and has been hooked on Mahj ever since!
Margo helps us with marketing campaigns and video editing.
Greater Baton Rouge
DAWN & JENNIFER
We’re Jennifer and Dawn—two friends who found a shared love in the game of Mahjong and couldn’t wait to spread the fun! Jennifer is a former teacher, and Dawn runs a nonprofit that feeds hungry children. We’ve both spent years raising children and are now loving our roles as grandmothers. With a little more time on our hands, we discovered Mahjong—and it quickly became our favorite pastime!
With strong ties to the Greater Baton Rouge area, we wanted to bring the joy, strategy, and connection of this beautiful game to our community. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone looking to brush up your skills, we’re excited to welcome you to the table and help you catch the Mahjong bug just like we did!
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Philanthropy
We choose to play Mahjong for many reasons. We love this brain-game, we love playing to win, and playing with friends. We also believe if we can Mahj For A Cause then we should!
Currently we partner to support the Cooper Royal Foundation and the Alzheimer's Association. Check out our upcoming events that support CPF and ALZ. Join us and Mahj for a cause!
In The Press
Mahj In the City
At Mahj in the City, we teach American Mahjong with heart, humor, and deep respect—for the game, for its roots, and for the connections it creates. Founded by best friends Ashley Sigmon and Leigh Young in Charlotte, NC, our mission is to make Mahjong accessible, social, and seriously fun.
Mahj in the City
Mahj In the City was started by two best friends - Ashley Sigmon & Leigh Young in Charlotte, NC. They learned to play together, & decided everyone they knew should learn too! Captivated by the game, for both the beautiful tiles, the pleasing nature of the rituals & rules of play and the brain-game workout motivated Ashley & Leigh to make sure everyone knows how to Mahj. Ashley, a former teacher & Leigh, former US House Staffer combined their background and skill sets to make learning to Mahj fun and do-able for all ages and stages of life. As we like to say, "Go On, Get You're Mahj On - It's Good for You!"
Connecting through tiles: Mahjong for a cause
What’s your favorite pastime? Golfing, playing pickleball, playing games, cooking, reading, gardening, playing tennis, biking, hiking? There are so many to choose from! Having a hobby or favorite pastime is important not just for enjoyment, exercise, or socializing, but also for your mental health. The same can be said for the endorphin boost you receive when you make a positive impact on someone’s day or life. Doing good makes you feel good.
