Young innovators from across the Algarve gathered for the region’s first AI Design Sprint, a two day hackathon aimed at encouraging teenagers to develop ethical and socially responsible artificial intelligence solutions.
Organised Teens in AI as part of its International Women’s Day 2026 Global Techathon campaign themed Give to Gain, the event brought together students aged 12 to 18 for hands on workshops and collaborative problem solving. The sprint was delivered in partnership with Nobel British International School in Lagoa, Algarve Evolution and Algarve Tech Hub.
The initiative focused on equipping young people with practical knowledge about how artificial intelligence works while emphasising responsible use and ethical design principles. Participants explored real world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and worked in teams to develop technology based concepts aimed at creating positive social impact.
Over the course of the programme, students were supported mentors and industry professionals who provided guidance on technical development, teamwork and presentation skills. The event also aimed to connect young participants with role models in the technology sector, offering insight into future academic and career pathways.
The winning team, known as Team 5 AIT, impressed judges with their project Ai Eat. The concept proposes an AI powered platform designed to help low income and time constrained families plan nutritious meals within limited budgets. combining meal suggestions with smart budget management tools, the team sought to address both food insecurity and health inequality through accessible technology.
The runners up, Team EqualMinds, developed a project tackling gender stereotypes in education. Their idea centred on an AI enabled learning experience that helps students identify and reflect on unconscious bias. The platform would present interactive prompts and scenarios to encourage critical thinking, while also offering guidance to teachers and parents on avoiding the reinforcement of limiting assumptions.
Judges evaluated projects based on innovation, teamwork and social relevance. Organisers said the level of creativity and awareness demonstrated participants highlighted the growing appetite among young people to engage thoughtfully with emerging technologies.
Elena Sinel, founder and chief executive of Teens in AI, said the event demonstrated how communities can foster responsible innovation investing time and mentorship in the next generation. She emphasised that empowering young people to build technology with strong values and social purpose is essential to shaping a more inclusive digital future.
The Algarve AI Design Sprint marks a significant step in expanding access to technology education in the region, reinforcing the role of collaborative partnerships between schools, industry and nonprofit organisations in preparing students for an AI driven world.
