Alt text:  **Youth Connect graphic promoting “Media literacy in the age of AI”, taking place in Nicosia from 20–22 November 2026, alongside a photo of a young woman studying at a laptop.**
Date
Friday 20 November 2026 - 18:00 to Sunday 22 November 2026 - 17:00
Location
CYENS - Centre of Excellence

Are you a young leader interested in how artificial intelligence algorithms are shaping what we see, hear and believe online?

Are you interested in connecting with peers and generating solutions to increase digital agency and address disinformation?

Join us on 20–22 November for a training programme exploring media literacy in the age of AI.

We are organising training and ideathon to explore how AI is shaping the media and information we consume, strengthen media and AI literacy, and develop ideas that support more responsible and informed engagement with digital media. This event is part of British Council’s Youth Connect programme, delivered in partnership with CYENS- Centre of Excellence and Think Young.

It will take place on 20-22 November 2026, in Nicosia.

What’s the training about?

Artificial intelligence is transforming how we access, share, and interpret information. This training will help you:

  • Understand how AI influences media and public opinion
  • Identify bias, disinformation, and manipulation online
  • Reflect on your own digital habits and leadership role
  • Explore ethical questions around privacy, moderation, and online behaviour
  • Collaborate on ideas and tools for responsible media engagement

During the training participants will form teams and receive input from trainers from Think Young. Teams will then work on a practical solution on the topic of disinformation. There will be a selection process to choose the best idea, and the winning team will be awarded with a study visit to the UK.

Who is it for?

We are inviting young leaders aged 18–35 who are:

  • Curious about the media, technology, and civic engagement
  • Active in their communities, studies, or professional fields
  • Motivated to learn, collaborate, and lead change

No prior expertise in AI or media studies is required—just an appetite to engage with the topic. We are looking for people with diverse backgrounds. Mentors from CYENS – Centre of Excellence will support each team through the process.

What is in it for you?

  • Two and a half creative days, where you will have the chance to meet new people and develop critical thinking skills to identify bias, disinformation and manipulation in digital environments
  • Work in teams to create solutions to combat disinformation.
  • Understand how algorithms, data and business models shape media narratives · Explore ethical questions around privacy, online behaviour and content moderation · Learn from leading experts in media and disinformation
  • The opportunity to win a study visit to the UK in 2027 and meet with other teams from similar events in Europe
  • The opportunity to join a forward-thinking network shaping the future of media and technology
  • Food and coffee to energise you.

What is required

Participants should:

  • have a good understanding of English as the event will be in English
  • bring their personal laptops and mobile phones
  • be able to fully attend all days of the event

You will be sent pre-event instructions to prepare.

When and where

The event will take place on Friday 20 (afternoon/evening), Saturday 21 (full day) and Sunday 22 (full day) November 2026 at CYENS - Centre of Excellence.

Participants are expected to be present for the whole duration of the event.

How to apply

To take part, complete the online application form by Monday 9 November 2026 (23.00 Cyprus time).

Please note that places are limited. We will notify successful applicants by Wednesday 11 November.

Our partners

The programme is delivered in collaboration with CYENS – Centre of Excellence and Think Young.

Information

For more information, please contact Marilena Kyriakou at marilena.kyriakou@cy.britishcouncil.org