The Creative School prepares for the 2026 World Cup

The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University hosts the 5th Annual Global Football University Hackathon.

This unique international experience is in partnership with six universities, Fontys University of Applied Sciences - SPECO (external link, opens in new window)  in The Netherlands, University of Westminister (external link, opens in new window)  in the United Kingdom, Univeridad del Desarrollo (external link, opens in new window)  in Chile, Tecnológico de Monterrey (external link, opens in new window)  in Mexico, Princess Nourah University (external link, opens in new window)  in Saudi Arabia and New York University (external link, opens in new window)  in the United States. 

This virtual international collaboration intersects global collaboration and creativity to create a unique opportunity for students to learn and connect with peers and industry professionals from The Sports Network (external link, opens in new window)  , Toronto Football Club (external link, opens in new window) , Saudi Arabian Football Federation Institute of Research (external link, opens in new window) , European Broadcasting Union (external link, opens in new window) , Ligue de Football Professionnel (external link, opens in new window) , The Athletic (external link, opens in new window)  & Sports Illustrated (external link, opens in new window)  and more. This project is spearheaded by The Creative School’s Sport Media professor, Laurel Walzak and Sadia Kamran, Associate Director, Communications and International Development. 

“Our 5th Annual Global Football University Hackathon is a truly international gathering that unites students, universities, and esteemed experts as judges from across the globe,” says Walzak. “This unique event fosters global collaboration and creativity, providing a platform for participants to connect, share ideas, and contribute to the growth and innovation of football worldwide.”

Image Arts alumna Hill Kourkoutis was chosen to create the Toronto remix (external link, opens in new window)  of the official FIFA World Cup 26 theme to reflect Toronto’s vibrant, multicultural spirit. Kourkoutis, an award-winning producer, songwriter and filmmaker, was inspired by the city’s diverse music scene to create an anthem reflecting Toronto’s multiculturalism and community spirit.

The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University

The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.