TechIsland Chairman addresses inaugural Awards ceremony

Valentinos Polykarpou, Chairman of TechIsland, and General Manager of Wargaming has addressed the inaugural TechIsland Awards.

Taking place at the Parklane Resort & Spa in Limassol, the Awards pay tribute to all those who are using their resources and influence to bring real change in Cyprus’ communities.

CBN is on site to provide live coverage of the prestigious event throughout the evening.

Polykarpou, described as a driving force to TechIsland’s mission, is someone who believes that technology, combined with genuine commitment can transform societies for the better.

In his address, Polykarpou noted that in 2022, the ICT sector contributed 13% to Cyprus’ GDP, adding, “This translates to €3 billion direct contribution.”

“During that year, more than 1000 new IT companies registered in our country; around 18,000 IT specialists with their families relocated to our island. This mobility has created an opportunity for the local economy and set the foundation for further growth in the years to come.”

Polykarpou went on to underline, “But these are not just figures. Behind these numbers, you can see people’s stories, vision, efforts, policy-making and achievements. And that’s why we, the board of TechIsland, decided to establish these awards. To showcase our belief that our industry can positively impact our education, our environment, our community at large.”

Noting he was standing before the audience on behalf of the TechIsland board and representing all 270 of the organisation’s members, Polykarpou continued that it was proud that the TechIsland had in the two years since its establishments managed to unify the tech sector on a large scale, seeing members work together to achieve significant results.

“Through our collective efforts we contributed to creating momentum; to dirve a big influx of companies and talent to Cyprus. Our focus now should not just be to attarct more. But also, to retain the ones that are already here.”

Polykarpou thanked President Nikos Christodolides and state representatives, noting the President’s presence at the event highlighted the importance of the tech sector to the community, economy and future of Cyprus.

He also thanked the tech sector pioneers, going on to underline the aim to transform Cyprus into a competitive and attractive destination for the region’s top talents, “A hub where innovators, digital nomads, and top-tier tech professionals come to live, work and innovate. A place that respects and builds upon diversity and inclusion, away from racism and discrimination.”

“Let this evening serve as both an affirmation and a commitment, Together we have the vision, the ambition, and the collective will. We are not just elevating an industry; we are elevating Cyprus itself. It takes an island; let’s always remember that.”

The Awards are supported by Gold Sponsor Unlimit, Sponsor of Awards Char. Pilakoutas Group, Silver Sponsors bbf and payabl., Bronze Sponsors Asbis Enterprises PLC and Bank of Cyprus, Ecosystem Partner PwC Cyprus, Event Supporter TikTok, Community Partner the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Hospitality Partner Parklane Resort & Spa, and Media Partner IMH.