TLDR : The AI4GOOD Festival, launched by Charlotte Govin, aims to use generative AI to promote inclusion and empowerment, particularly among young people from Africa and the Pacific. By providing AI skills and tools to develop solutions suited to local realities, the festival aspires to become the largest global initiative dedicated to youth and AI.
Launched in 2024 in Mauritius by Charlotte Govin, the AI4GOOD Festival not only celebrates creativity assisted by generative AI. It aims to make it a lever for inclusion and empowerment, equipping young people, especially those from underrepresented regions like Africa or the Pacific, with the means to harness these technologies to design concrete solutions tailored to their local realities.
From its first edition, the initiative focused on the African continent. With 60% of its population under the age of 25, Africa holds an immense pool of talent. However, in many countries, digital infrastructure, educational resources, and internet connectivity remain unevenly distributed, especially in rural areas, limiting access to digital skills.
In response to this, Charlotte Govin created a nonprofit organization to impart practical skills to young Africans, enabling them to contribute to responsible digital growth. Her approach is fully aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education, gender equality, bridging digital divides, and combating climate change.
During the first edition in 2024, 80 young people from Mauritius and Madagascar presented a short film made with generative AI tools. In 2025, the program expanded to other territories: Senegal, South Africa, Comoros, New Caledonia...
The competition targets 12-25 year olds, invited to compete locally this year in two categories: short film and video game. Two themes were proposed: “Good Tech, Bad Tech”, a reflection on ethical dilemmas related to technology, and “Superhero Everyday”, highlighting everyday heroes.
Participants had three weeks to produce their work. The organization provided them with the necessary AI tool licenses for free, as well as training sessions (live or replay). Mentorship was also offered if they desired.
Each locally winning project was then evaluated by an international jury. In the 20-25 age category, Vinciane Henintsoa won the international award with a "flawlessly executed" short film according to the jury, both clear in its message and subtle in its treatment. Watch the video.
Building on this successful second edition, the AI4GOOD Festival aims to become the largest global initiative dedicated to youth and extend its presence to over 50 cities in the coming years. This expansion will be supported by the creation of an open educational platform, offering everyone free resources to learn about AI.
It also aims to influence debates on AI policies and ethics.
To view other short films presented at the festivals: AI4GOOD Festival - YouTube