In the premiere episode of Expats Unpacked, Sean Alimov, business executive and founder of the Youth Tech Festival in Cyprus, shares his inspiring journey and groundbreaking efforts to transform education. From his personal connection to Cyprus to his vision of inclusive, technology-driven learning, Sean’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and community.

The Journey to Cyprus

Sean’s move to Cyprus was inspired by a personal connection—his wife. After visiting in 2006, Sean made the permanent move in 2013. Despite initial challenges, such as navigating bureaucracy and finding professional opportunities, he found a strong sense of belonging in the local community.

Inspired by Family

Sean’s passion for education stems from his daughter’s enthusiasm for learning. Witnessing her excitement about AI and robotics at school prompted Sean to leverage his extensive international experience to create opportunities for children in Cyprus. His goal? To reimagine education around students’ natural talents and interests.

The Youth Tech Festival

The Youth Tech Festival is at the heart of Sean’s mission. Designed to ignite curiosity and foster innovation, the initiative focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education through hands-on, passion-driven experiences.

Highlights of the festival include:

• Inclusivity: Providing resources and opportunities for underprivileged children and those in remote areas.

• Role Models: Showcasing young achievers in sports, design, and technology to inspire peers.

• Accessible Tools: Distributing robotics kits and other resources to schools with limited access to technology.

Bridging Gaps Between Business and Education

Sean emphasizes the importance of connecting businesses and academia to enhance education. By integrating industry insights and real-world applications, the festival equips students with skills in high-demand fields like AI, fintech, and cybersecurity—starting at the elementary level.

Overcoming Barriers

A core focus of the initiative is ensuring equitable access to education. Sean and his team provide logistical support, resources, and even recommendation letters to help students access global opportunities, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Community and Government Support

While the Youth Tech Festival receives backing from the Cypriot Ministry of Education, Sean sees room for further collaboration and policy improvements. By fostering a shared mission of inclusive education, he hopes to build a stronger foundation for future generations.

Looking Ahead

Sean Alimov’s work with the Youth Tech Festival reflects his commitment to empowering young minds through innovation and collaboration. His efforts unite diverse communities, break down barriers, and inspire a brighter future for children across Cyprus.

Tune in to Expats Unpacked for more stories of individuals making a difference through resilience, creativity, and determination. Follow us on YouTube and Spotify for updates on upcoming episodes.