Celebrating Innovation at TechTides Youth 2025

Hightop was delighted to host TechTides Youth 2025 at North West Regional College’s (NWRC) Foyle Theatre, welcoming over 160 students from schools across the region. The event brought together young innovators to showcase their creativity, ambition, and forward-thinking ideas that are shaping the future of technology and entrepreneurship.

Speakers and Panelists

The day featured an inspiring lineup of speakers, including:

• Isabella Leonard – Social Entrepreneur & Co-Founder, MORE

• Ava McGurk – 6x Award-Winning Innovator & Co-Founder, ReCreo

• Clare Hamilton – Tech Entrepreneur & Co-Founder, The Influencer Hub

• David McGuckin – AI Entrepreneur & Co-Founder, Opinly

• Josh McCamley & Zach Johnston – Game-Makers & Co-Founders, Mad Moon Studios

• John M. – Co-Founder & CEO, Americal Rail (A CropSafe Company)

  
  

The student audience also benefited from panel discussions featuring industry professionals:

• Dylan McNee – Technical Analyst, Alchemy

• Deirbhile Leonard – Graduate Software Engineer, Allstate Northern Ireland

• Rebecca Cooke – Junior Software Developer, AVEVA

Students left with valuable insights on starting businesses, developing tech skills, and taking the next steps toward bringing their ideas to life.

Innovation in Action: The Top 3 Ideas

The highlight of the day was the announcement of the winning projects.

1st Place: Circle Up – Lumen Christi College

Circle Up won £500 and a place on the Hightop Accelerator starting January 2026. Their project creates new ways for young people in Derry and Strabane to connect through shared interests in music, sport, theatre, and more, fostering community and collaboration.

2nd Place: Peace On Route - Lisneal College, Foyle College, Lumen Christi College and Errigal College:

A digital solution that makes school bus journeys calmer and more positive by rewarding teamwork and good behaviour through fun, interactive challenges and leaderboard.

3rd Place: Everlasting Memories – St Mary’s College

A board game designed to help families and friends share stories, spark memories, and stay connected with loved ones living with Alzheimer's or dementia.

A special thank you to our speakers, panelists, and the NWRC Media & Marketing students who captured the energy of the day.

TechTides Youth 2025 was a high-energy, inspiring event filled with creativity, innovation, and ambition. We look forward to supporting these young innovators as they continue to grow and shape the future.

Learn more about Hightop and get involved at www.hightop.com