MASK Awards 2024 celebrates creativity across cultures

Since its inception in 2013, MASK Awards—an international creativity and innovation competition for schools and young people under 25—has been dedicated to nurturing young minds. What began in Kenya has evolved into a global movement, now spanning 63 countries and receiving over 18,500 entries from more than 6,500 young people. 

This year, participants in MASK Awards represent 56 countries from every continent. They submitted their best works of art on any theme and in any medium, as well as their brightest innovative solutions to global challenges such as reducing poverty, creating jobs for youth, and preserving 'life under sea'.

Through the Art, Innovation, and Schools categories, the participants reflect a rich diversity of cultures and backgrounds while sharing a common thread: creativity as a universal force that transcends borders in shaping a better future.

As the world continues to evolve rapidly, the need for creativity has never been more urgent. Creativity is a core skill for the future—it’s about innovating, problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and it is shaped by creating art from an early age. MASK Awards is unique in highlighting the deep connection between art and innovation, encapsulated in their motto: Art shapes creativity, creativity shapes innovation, and innovation shapes the world. Together, these forces lay the foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

MASK Awards serves as a vital platform for inspiring and celebrating young creativity. The programme empowers a generation through art, creativity, and innovation, demonstrating the immense potential of younger generations waiting to be realised!

MASK Awards 2024' all nominees and winners

Announcing the MASK Awards 2024 winners

• Artist of the Year 2024: Amon Kibet (Kenya)
  Amon’s work reflects his creative upbringing, blending tradition with innovation to challenge the status quo. His art is a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for inspiration and change. Learn more about Amon’s journey

• Emerging Artist of the Year 2024: Lydia Vaz (USA)
  At just 16, Lydia is already gaining recognition for her striking surreal and realistic imagery, exploring themes of identity and personal growth. Discover Lydia’s work

• Innovator of the Year 2024: Saksham Dixit (UAE)
  Saksham’s work at the intersection of art, technology, and culture pushes creative boundaries and redefines what innovation means in today’s world. Explore Saksham’s ideas

• Special Recognition Architect 2024: Lee Momanyi (Kenya)
  Lee’s visionary "School of the Future" design, made from sustainable materials, blends creative architecture with innovative thinking to inspire the next generation.
  See Lee’s designs

• Creative School of the Year 2024: Nyumbani Children's Home (Kenya)
  Nyumbani’s longstanding commitment to nurturing creativity through art clubs and workshops has transformed the lives of HIV-positive children, offering them an outlet for expression and hope. Learn about Nyumbani

Prizes

Winners will receive esteemed titles and feature in MASK exhibitions and on social media. While there are no cash prizes, this recognition will boost confidence and open new doors!

Awards Ceremony

Normally, MASK Awards hosts a physical Awards Ceremony in Nairobi to celebrate the incredible talent of our participants. However, with entries from 56 countries and winners spanning three continents, a physical ceremony is not feasible this year. While an online event was considered, the challenge of coordinating across diverse time zones and creating an engaging virtual experience for our global participants made it difficult to pursue. Instead, MASK will focus on providing winners with enhanced recognition through exclusive exhibitions, digital showcases, and global opportunities to highlight their work.

Supporting Creativity for the Future

MASK Awards 2024 is supported by the Media Partner The Star (Kenya), Rivers Foundation (UK), The Linbury Trust (UK), Google Non-Profit Grant, MASK Ambassadors and dedicated volunteers.

If you or your company are interested in sponsoring cash or internship prizes, or/and Award Ceremony in your country, please contact MASK on contact@maskcreate.org