Teens in AI has been named Best AI Education & Youth Innovation Programme 2026 in the SME News Greater London Enterprise Awards.
The award recognises Teens in AI’s work equipping young people with the skills, confidence and critical understanding they need to participate in the AI-powered future.
Founded in 2018, Teens in AI is a UK-based global social impact initiative working with young people aged 13–18 to build AI literacy, encourage responsible innovation and ensure that young people from under-represented backgrounds have the opportunity to shape the technologies that will affect their lives.
Through programmes including AI Adventures, AI Techathons, Teens in Action and AI4Good, young people learn about artificial intelligence while developing practical skills in problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking and ethical innovation. They apply these skills to real-world challenges linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The recognition comes at a time when understanding AI is becoming increasingly important for young people, education and the future workforce. Teens in AI’s latest research found that while 70% of young people surveyed use AI daily, 48% believe their school is not preparing them adequately for an AI-enabled future.
Today, Teens in AI has reached more than 40,000 young people across 102 countries, working with schools, educators, universities, governments and corporate partners to make AI education more accessible and inclusive.
The SME News Greater London Enterprise Awards celebrate organisations demonstrating excellence, achievement and impact across the region.
Elena Sinel, Founder and CEO of Teens in AI, shared:
“Young people should not simply be consumers of AI. They need the knowledge, confidence and critical thinking skills to understand it, question it and help shape how it is used. This award recognises the importance of giving young people the opportunity to engage with AI in a way that is practical, responsible and inclusive.”
The award reflects Teens in AI’s continued commitment to ensuring that the next generation has the skills and opportunities to help shape a future with AI that works for everyone.
🔗 Read SME News Greater London Enterprise Awards’ Press Announcement
