Welcome Speech by Demetris Skourides – JA StartUp & Beyond Programmes

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, industry leaders, and most importantly, our aspiring entrepreneurs,

It is truly a pleasure to be here today at the Junior Achievements StartUp & Beyond Programmes, where we celebrate the incredible talent, ambition, and innovation of the next generation of entrepreneurs. This event brings together some of the most promising young minds, alongside key stakeholders and industry professionals, all with a shared vision—to shape a future driven by creativity, technology, and impact.

As Chief Scientist of Cyprus, Chairman of the National AI Task Force, and a Global Leader in Innovation and Research, I have witnessed firsthand how innovation and entrepreneurship are transforming economies and societies worldwide. Cyprus is no exception. With initiatives like Junior Achievement Cyprus’ StartUp and Beyond Pre-Accelerator programmes, we are fostering a culture where young innovators have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to turn bold ideas into real solutions.

The Beyond Pre-Accelerator programme has empowered students and young professionals to develop groundbreaking solutions in the health sector, addressing challenges in prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.

Meanwhile, the Junior Achievement StartUp programme has given aspiring entrepreneurs the platform to create and refine their business models, with the winning team set to represent Cyprus at the Junior Achievement Europe GEN-E 2025 competition in Athens. These initiatives do more than just nurture startups—they cultivate problem-solvers, disruptors, and future leaders.

Cyprus has all the right ingredients to become a regional hub for innovation: talent, ambition, and a growing support ecosystem. As we witness the presentations today, let us celebrate the hard work, creativity, and determination of these young entrepreneurs who are shaping the future.

I look forward to seeing the ideas that will be showcased and engaging in discussions on how we can continue to support and accelerate innovation in Cyprus. Congratulations to all the teams for making it this far—today is your moment to shine!

Thank you.