Qatar is to host the first-ever youth festival in the region aimed at promoting cultural exchange through sports. \"Run the World\" National Youth Festival, will feature a variety of events including photography exhibitions, conferences, beach activities, talent shows and concerts. The Youth Company, the first youth social enterprise in Qatar is collaborating with Katara, the Cultural Village and Qatar Museums Authority (QMA) for the pioneering initiative to be held from December 11 to 18 at the Katara, Qatari daily (The Peninsula) reported Monday. CEO of The Youth Company Mohammed Farid said the event, which is planned to be held annually, is completely managed by young people living in Qatar aged 15 to 26 to promote leadership and interest in sports. \"This festival is dedicated to the youth, providing them with fun and exciting activities to express themselves in a unique environment. We hope that this festival inspires people to continue participating in sports activities throughout the year,\" Fardi said, adding their committee has 60 members and over 2,000 volunteers for the event and since their inception has so far reached out to around 20,000 youths. He said the event which is for free will see participation from other countries such as Kuwait, the UAE and Bahrain, but most of the participants will be young people of Qatar. The festival will be the largest multi-sport, national initiative for youth, providing a platform to showcase their talents in a creative environment. The unique activities aim to explore the many different cultures and traditions that have come together in Qatar as well as promoting health and fitness. A highlight of the event is the first \"Run The World\" Youth Conference which will bring together Qatar’s youth leaders to discuss long-term projects that will ensure the sustainability of the development of youth in Sports in Qatar. Photography and short film competitions under the theme ‘Youth and Sport’ will also be organized providing amateur photographers and film opportunity to showcase their vision of youth empowerment. (QNA) LY