Reflect Festival named IT Ambassador for 2023 at TechIsland Awards

Described as pivotal in promoting Cyprus to tech enthusiasts over the past six years, Reflect Festival has been named IT Ambassador for 2023 at the Techisland Awards.

Philippos Hadjizacharias, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, and Siarhei Kostevitch, Board Member of TechIsland and CEO of ASBIS, presented the prestigious award to Reflect Festival representatives Andria Lambrou and Aleksander Jahn.

The prize was handed over at the inaugural TechIsland Awards, taking place in Limassol.

CBN is on site to provide live coverage of the prestigious event throughout the evening, at an event paying tribute to all those who are using their resources and influence to bring about real change in Cyprus’ communities, from education and social actions to policy reforms.

The other nominees for the IT Ambassador prize were Oleg Reshetnikov, founder of Cyprus IT, and Quadcode. Ahead of presenting the Award, Kostevitch commented, “I've been in the tech industry for many years. What always fills me with pride is seeing initiatives that represent our sector impressively both locally and internationally. Tonight, we're here to honor IT Ambassadors—be they projects, conferences, events, individuals, or companies—that have gone above and beyond to put Cyprus on the world IT map.”

As noted by the event’s presenters, meanwhile, the eventual winner, Reflect Festival, has an influence that extends beyond Cyprus’ shores, particularly enhancing the island's reputation in entrepreneurial communities worldwide and fostering partnerships for startups considering the island as their base.

From a modest gathering of 200 in 2017, Reflect Festival is now expected to welcome a staggering 8,000 guests this year in Limassol, positioning it as an emerging tech powerhouse.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Reflect Festival, Lambrou thanked TechIsland for the recognition, noting that preparation for the sixth Festival were already underway and that the event was anticipated to attract 8,000 attendees.

“The best ambassadors are not us, they are you,” she told the ceremony’s attendees, adding that when like-minded people came together, magic happened.

Jahn said that the thanks for the Award were not only out of gratitude but also for TechIsland support on the journey to make Cyprus a tech island.

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.