Youth Tech Fest Cyprus powered by Freedom24 was named the Best Youth Tech and Innovation Festival worldwide for 2026 and secured a second consecutive international award, while continuing to expand its impact and partnerships.

According to an official announcement from the organisers, the festival received the recognition at the Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2026, presented by UK-based Acquisition International Magazine, marking its second successive global distinction.

“Youth Tech Fest Cyprus has been challenging traditional education models by creating a dynamic platform where young people engage with technology, entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation in a way that aligns with their natural interests and strengths,” said founder Sean Alimov.

“By focusing on passion-driven learning, our initiative welcomes all young people to explore pathways that resonate with who they are encouraging them build confidence, develop future-proof skills while prioritising their wellbeing and happiness,” he added.

At the core of the initiative is a strong focus on inclusion and accessibility for young people aged 4-19, ensuring equal participation opportunities.

The festival operates as a free-to-attend and multilingual platform, offering content in Greek, English and Russian.

Its format combines a broad range of activities including technology, entrepreneurship, art, music and sport, creating a diverse and engaging environment.

The organisers emphasised that participation is open to all young people regardless of socio-economic background, gender, neurodevelopmental profile or physical and learning limitations.

The fourth edition of the festival was described as the largest and most impactful to date.

It brought together more than 2,000 students from over 120 secondary schools and 100 primary schools, spanning both private and public education sectors.

The event also attracted regional and global companies across multiple industries, highlighting strong business engagement.

A total of 43 leading UK universities participated through the British Council, reinforcing the festival’s educational reach.

The gathering featured global thought leaders, senior executives and celebrities, contributing to a high-profile international presence.

“Importantly for Cyprus, with back-to-back global awards, Youth Tech Fest Cyprus continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the country’s international reputation as a trusted jurisdiction for academia, businesses and research-oriented investment,” the organisers stated.

“This success story stands as a powerful example of how a bold vision, rooted in inclusion and innovation, can elevate not only our young generation but an entire nation onto the global stage,” they added.

Special recognition was extended to headline partner Freedom24, as well as partners including British Council Cyprus, AdTech Holding, Match Liquidity DMCC, bbf:, Adsterra, XM, Invest Cyprus and UCLan Cyprus.

Additional appreciation was noted for Petrolina (Holdings) Public Ltd, DP World Limassol, Odyssey Cybersecurity, Sliq Business, G.A.P. Vassilopoulos Group, Warehouse by IT Quarter, Gear Education, Wood Wizards and Dento Aviation.