Antuan Selected Among Global GT 20 Under 20 Innovators, Following 700+ Nominations
At the British School of Bucharest, we are proud to see our students pursue projects that extend beyond the classroom and gain recognition on an international stage.
Antuan, a Year 9 student at the British School of Bucharest, has been selected for the 2026 GT 20 Under 20 cohort, following a highly competitive global selection process with over 700 nominations worldwide. The programme recognises young innovators whose work demonstrates originality, purpose and the potential to create meaningful impact.
For Antuan, the recognition brought both validation and a renewed sense of responsibility:
My first reaction was a mix of surprise and validation. I’ve been putting a lot of time into building my project, but it’s hard to know if you’re on the right track. Being selected made me feel like the work I’ve been doing is being recognised.
At the same time, the opportunity encouraged him to think more seriously about how to further develop the project and make the most of what lies ahead.
An Idea Designed to Make a Difference
At the centre of Antuan’s work is Blind Spot, a wearable assistive device designed to help visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings more safely and independently. By detecting nearby obstacles and translating that information into vibrations, the device enables users to build awareness of their environment without relying on sight or sound.
Originally explored as part of a broader interest in innovation and experimentation, the project gradually evolved into a focused concept with a clear social purpose.
The biggest change is that it has moved from being an abstract idea to a practical solution aimed at improving everyday life for people who need it.
One of the most important turning points came through the Blue Ocean Student Entrepreneur Competition 2025, where Antuan presented Blind Spot internationally and achieved an outstanding 2nd place in Europe. Competing alongside students from around the world helped him better understand how concepts can be tested, refined and strengthened further, as previously highlighted in From a Bold Idea to Global Recognition.
At BSB, students are encouraged to explore new ideas through initiatives such as the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hubs, where they strengthen skills including critical thinking, creativity, leadership and financial literacy. Through hands-on, cross-disciplinary experiences — including projects like Project Zephyr — they are supported in refining their thinking in meaningful contexts.
A Platform for Growth
Being selected for the GT 20 Under 20 cohort has placed Antuan within a network of ambitious young innovators, mentors and experienced professionals from around the world.
What stood out to me is the level of people involved, both participants and mentors, which creates an environment where you’re constantly pushed to improve.
He also describes the programme as a space that provides young innovators with the structure, guidance and network needed to further develop their ideas while gaining new perspectives through collaboration and mentorship.
Through the programme, Antuan also gained access to mentorship opportunities, international visibility and scholarship support through the Gifted and Talented 20 Under 20 initiative and partner organisations. As one of the youngest participants selected for the 2026 cohort, he now joins a global network of young innovators and experienced mentors.
From Initiative to Impact
A defining part of Antuan’s journey has been his willingness to take initiative — starting with an early concept and improving it through action and feedback.
If you do not start, the chance is still zero. No companies or products start perfect. Even a basic idea improves once you act on it and get feedback.
At the British School of Bucharest, students are encouraged to think independently, explore their interests and develop the confidence to take their ambitions further. Antuan’s journey reflects this approach — combining curiosity, initiative and purposeful thinking in a project already gaining international recognition.
As he continues within the GT 20 Under 20 programme, Blind Spot stands as a compelling example of how thoughtful ideas, supported by persistence and purpose, can begin to make a meaningful difference.
