Reflections from the Stage: Powerful Words from Global Leaders

ICIA 2026 was more than an international innovation competition.

It was a gathering of young changemakers, educators, leaders, and institutions who shared one vision: empowering future generations to create meaningful impact through innovation.

Throughout the event, inspiring messages were delivered by government officials, education leaders, and global partners. Their words reminded participants that innovation goes beyond projects and awards — it is about purpose, perseverance, and building a better future.

Here are some of the remarkable remarks shared during ICIA 2026

A Message for Future Changemakers

His Excellency Dr. EANG Sophalleth

Minister of Environment

“To participants, I urge you to view today not as the culmination of a competition, but as the genesis of lifelong vocations. Return to your schools, your communities, and your nations with these blueprints in hand, translate your visionary concepts into decisive action and your action into a long-lasting global impact.”

This message encouraged participants to see ICIA not as an ending, but as the beginning of a journey toward real-world impact.

Innovation with Kindness and Resilience

His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Education, Youth and Sport

“To young people in this room: stay curious. Stay kind. Stay the kind of person who lifts up the peer beside you, even in a hall full of competitors. The world does not need more winners. It needs more builders, more bridge-makers, more problem-solvers who refuse to let cynicism have the last word. Innovation is not only about success — it is about perseverance, resilience, and the refusal to stop caring.”

His remarks highlighted an important reminder: innovation is driven not only by intelligence, but also by empathy, collaboration, and persistence.

Turning Ideas into Real Solutions

Antonius MB, S.Kom., M.Med.Kom.

CEO of Krya Global & Initiator of ICIA

“ICIA serves as a global platform where creativity meets purpose, and where young minds are empowered to create solutions for real-world challenges. To all participants, you are already winners by being here. Your ideas have the potential to inspire change and shape a better tomorrow.”

ICIA continues to provide opportunities for students and innovators to transform creativity into practical solutions for society.

Expanding Access to Innovation

Ms. Eang Nithijounie Dene

Executive Director of STEM Education Organization for Cambodia

“Many students still have limited access to hands-on learning, innovation platforms, and opportunities to connect their knowledge to real-world problem solving. This is where initiatives like the ICIA play a crucial role.”

Her statement emphasized the importance of providing platforms that make innovation accessible and meaningful for students.

Celebrating a Global Community of Innovation

Dr. Sumi Wijaya, Pharmacist

President of Widya Mandala Catholic University Surabaya

“Over the past three days, this forum has been more than just a competition; it has been a Global Celebration of Young Innovation. We gathered here with a shared vision: to provide a stage where creativity knows no borders and where the bright minds of the younger generation can flourish. Looking at the diverse array of projects presented — from sustainable technologies to social breakthroughs — it is clear that the future is not just coming; it is already being built by all of you.”

The statement reflected the spirit of ICIA 2026 — a place where ideas from different countries came together to inspire global impact.

More Than a Competition

ICIA 2026 brought together innovation, collaboration, education, and purpose.

The voices shared throughout the event reminded participants that every project begins with curiosity, every innovation starts with courage, and every idea has the potential to create change.

As participants return to their schools, communities, and countries, these messages continue to inspire the next chapter of innovation.