Moroccan teenager joins 1,000 young people for IFY 2026 Children’s Programme in Russia

Sixteen-year-old Hssaine Akram, a Moroccan teenager, is among 1,000 young people from 99 countries selected for the Children's Programme at the 2026 International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia. The programme, launched by the Movement of the First under the festival's "Follow Your Dream" theme, aims to promote international collaboration, cultural exchange, and the development of youth-led initiatives.

Akram expressed his gratitude for being welcomed warmly by Russia, a sentiment shared by participants worldwide.

The programme, which will take place from September 11 to 17, 2026, is open to teenagers aged 14 to 17, selected from nearly 16,500 applicants globally. Akram highlighted the importance of bringing together young people and specialists from diverse backgrounds to foster innovative solutions to challenges across various sectors. Meanwhile, Artur Orlov, Chairman of the Board of the Movement of the First, emphasized the program's goal to create a space of friendship, showcasing Russia's openness and hospitality to build diverse forms of cooperation.

Participants will engage in 60 laboratories and workshops covering science, education, digitalization, information technology, creative industries, culture, sports, health, media, public administration, and entrepreneurship. The programme is expected to yield around 60 projects, which will be assessed by experts and partners for potential implementation in Russia and beyond.

With over 250 activities delivered by 120 partner institutions, the festival will feature physical fitness tests, esports masterclasses, cultural programs, off-site events, and a children's newsroom for independent content creation.

Other attractions include the "City of the Future," showcasing Russian technological advancements, and an interactive Ethnographic Village highlighting the nation's cultural traditions. The International Festival of Youth will also host a meeting of the Coordinating Council of the International Association of Children's Organisations.

The festival is set to take place in Ekaterinburg from September 11 to 17, 2026, attracting 10,000 young leaders from 191 countries, including 5,000 Russians and 5,000 international participants.