This year’s awards drew participation from 27 countries across six continents, demonstrating the universal power of creativity as a force for progress and human development.

From Nairobi to New York, Colombo to Bangkok, young people under the age of 25 submitted thousands of entries in art and innovation, competing for prestigious titles that recognise originality, bold thinking and real-world problem-solving. The awards form part of MASK’s global initiative to position creativity at the core of education and youth development, supported in Kenya through a strong partnership with national media partner the Star.

At the top of this year’s honours, Flavian Masai, Maisie Businge and Beda Mubatsi of Kenya, alongside Heidi Passant from UK, were crowned Artists of the Year 2025 for outstanding creative work across diverse media. These young artists stood out for their visual ingenuity, depth of expression and ability to engage audiences with powerful ideas through art.

In the Emerging Artist of the Year category, winners included Nicolás Escobar (Colombia), Kyle Nderitu (Kenya), Bathmawathy G (India), Hailey Kluck (USA) and Muying Deng (Canada) — a testament to the global breadth of creative talent recognised this year.

The innovation categories showcased young problem-solvers addressing pressing global challenges. Teagan Tierney (USA) won for “#1 No Hunger”, proposing a bold system that transforms community service into currency. Alvin Kiptoo (Kenya) impressed judges with “Create Your Own Job”, an inventive fusion of craft and technology, while Pat Lochanakosin (Thailand) was recognised for “Moral Compass,” an interactive ethical learning lab equipping young people with tools for responsible decision-making.

Kenyan schools also shone brightly. CITAM Schools Athi River, COGRI Art Club (Nairobi), G-THAMINI Art Centre (Embakasi) and St Bakhita Schools (Sabaki) were named Creative Schools of the Year, reflecting sustained commitment to nurturing creativity within institutional settings.

Beyond young creators, categories recognising educators and media partners highlighted the wider ecosystem that enables creativity to flourish. Creative Teachers of the Year and the Outstanding Media Patron of Young Creativity in Kenya serve as reminders that encouragement and recognition are as essential as raw talent.

MASK Awards would not be possible without the generous support of its donors and partners. Heartfelt thanks go to the Star, founding media partner in Kenya, whose coverage and advocacy have amplified young voices nationwide. International supporters Rivers Foundation and The Linbury Trust (UK), along with dedicated judges and volunteers, have all played a vital role in nurturing this global community of young creators.

More than a prize-giving ceremony, MASK Awards represent a gathering of generations united by a belief in creativity as a driver of social, cultural, and economic transformation. The public is warmly invited to witness how young people are shaping the future through ideas and action. 

MASK Awards 2025 Prize-Giving CeremonyWhen: Friday, January 30, 2026, 1:00 PMWhere: Sarakasi Dome, Ngara Road, NairobiEntry: Free — with music and celebration

All readers of the Star are welcome 

 Alla Tkachuk is the founder of MASK Awards