Teens in AI has been named AI Literacy & Social Impact Leadership Award 2026 in the SME News Greater London Enterprise Awards.
The award recognises Teens in AI’s work equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and critical understanding needed to navigate and shape an AI-powered future, while ensuring that access to AI education is more equitable and inclusive.
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 70% of young people surveyed use AI daily, while 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, with awards presented on merit.
Elena Sinel, Founder and CEO of Teens in AI, shared:
“AI literacy is no longer an optional skill. Young people need the confidence and critical understanding to navigate AI, recognise its opportunities and challenges, and have a voice in how it shapes their future. This award recognises the importance of combining AI education with a strong focus on equity, responsibility and social impact.”
The award reflects Teens in AI’s continued commitment to making AI education accessible to young people and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to participate meaningfully in the AI economy and society.
🔗 Read SME News Greater London Enterprise Awards’ Press Announcement
