Celebrating Youth and Language: The Icelandic Youth Language Awards
Today marks a significant occasion in Reykjavík, as the Icelandic Youth Language Awards will be held in the magnificent Norðurljós Hall at Harpa, from 5 PM to 6 PM. This event, part of the celebrations for the Day of the Icelandic Language, highlights the rich heritage and ongoing vibrancy of the Icelandic language.
This year, we celebrate the nineteenth edition of these awards, organized by Reykjavíkurborg’s School and Leisure Council in collaboration with Reykjavík’s UNESCO City of Literature. These partnerships underscore the city’s commitment to fostering a love for literature and language among its youth.
At the heart of the Icelandic Youth Language Awards lies a noble mission: to ignite a passion for the Icelandic language among primary school pupils in Reykjavík, motivating them to excel in both spoken and written expression.
This year, 47 talented students from 23 primary schools will be honored for their achievements. Since the awards’ inception, nearly 1,200 pupils and pupil groups have been nominated, a testament to the enthusiasm for language that thrives in this community.
Mrs. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, Iceland’s first female president who served from 1980 to 1996, proudly serves as the patron of these celebrated awards. Her legacy continues to inspire a new generation.
The awards committee is composed of dedicated individuals, including chair Marta Guðjónsdóttir, a member of the school and leisure council, along with headteacher representative Kristín Jóhannesdóttir, and specialists Ingunn Ásta Sigmundsdóttir, Dagbjört Þorsteinsdóttir, and Elínrós Benediktsdóttir from the school and leisure division. Together, they play a crucial role in selecting those who will be celebrated today.
As we gather to honor these young voices, we are reminded of the power of language and the importance of nurturing it in future generations.
