It is with immense pride that we share one of the most significant achievements in the history of youth entrepreneurship in Cyprus. At GEN-E 2026, Europe’s largest youth entrepreneurship festival, university team LIVIA won 1st place in the “JA Europe Innovation of the Year 2026 – University Level” category, as well as the prestigious FedEx Access Award, while HerShield, the student company from St. Mary’s School in Limassol, secured 3rd place in the “JA Europe Company of the Year 2026” category.

This achievement is even more significant as Cyprus was the only country, among more than 40 participating nations, to have two teams on the podium of Europe’s leading youth entrepreneurship awards. With three awards in total, the Cypriot delegation delivered a historic performance, showcasing the talent, creativity and potential of the next generation of young people in our country.

This historic distinction is the result of the collective efforts of a growing ecosystem of innovation, education and entrepreneurship. It belongs to our young people, their teachers, academics, mentors and families, as well as to all the institutions, organisations and businesses that invest in youth entrepreneurship and create the conditions for young people in Cyprus to innovate and excel internationally.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you, our partners and friends, for your continued trust and support. The success of LIVIA and HerShield is also your success, as your contribution enables us to provide young people with the opportunities, tools and guidance they need to transform their ideas into achievements of European significance.