Oslo World Youth 2026

Oslo World Youth is cultural experiences for young people, created by young people. After receiving many strong applications, Oslo World assembled a team of four engaged young adults this spring to lead the festival’s youth-focused initiatives. Oslo World is extremely pleased with the selected group — they are the cultural producers of the future and will help shape Oslo World 2026 in several ways.

Ali Abdi

Ali Abdi (18) is from Oslo. He has previously been active in youth councils in various organizations and has held a position on the county board of the Norwegian Student Organization. Through his involvement, he has gained experience in youth participation and organizational work, and he is passionate about highlighting issues that feel close and relevant to young people. Alongside his organizational work, Ali works as a model and has a strong interest in music, fashion, and sports.

He is especially concerned with identity and roots, and how these shape both individuals and society. He has demonstrated this commitment by organizing his own event focused on the history and care of Afro hair, with the goal of increasing awareness and knowledge. Ali wants to continue using his voice to highlight important perspectives and contribute to a more inclusive and nuanced focus on youth in society.

Penelope Hilstad 

Penelope Hilstad (18) is from Oslo and works with theatre and acting. With roots in Argentina, diversity in art and culture is important to her. She has built experience within the performing arts and uses both theatre and music as forms of expression to explore identity, emotions, and various social issues.

Penelope is passionate about using her voice to stand up for what she believes in and sees art as an important space for creating reflection and change. Through both performance and music, she wants to tell stories that engage and challenge audiences, while contributing to a more open and inclusive space for young voices in cultural life.

Nina Anne Wamuyu Muriuki

Nina Anne Wamuyu Muriuki (20) is from Oslo and studies sociology at the University of Oslo. She is interested in art, music, literature, and culture, and hopes to become a bridge-builder between different people and communities. She is passionate about social inequality, youth perspectives, and dialogue around topics such as racism, identity, and feminism. Alongside her studies, she works in a hat shop, participates in student radio, and creates visual art. Nina wants to encourage dialogue between young people and adults, as she sees this as a cornerstone for broader understanding and a stronger sense of community.

Almine Scardilli-Diaz

Almine Scardilli-Diaz (19) is an Argentine from Drammen pursuing a bachelor’s degree in project management within the arts and creative industries at Kristiania University College. She has a strong interest in the music industry and has gained valuable experience through volunteer work at events such as by:Larm and Øyafestivalen, in addition to working at Union Scene and Drammen Theatre.

Alongside her studies, she is an active hip-hop dancer with a strong commitment to elevating underground artistic expressions. Through what hip-hop and music have taught her, she hopes to contribute to greater visibility and recognition for these styles across different industries.