Teen Ambassador Addressed Railway Influencer Festival
InnoTrans ambassador Adam El Rafey spoke to industry leaders about bridging the gap between rail and youth audiences.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Youth
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Do you believe the railway industry is effectively attracting young talent today?
At the 2026 Railway Influencer Festival, 16-year-old ambassador Adam El Rafey encouraged the rail industry to rethink how it engages with young people. He emphasized the need for clearer connections between technology and modern transportation.
Why it matters
The rail industry currently struggles with the perception that advanced technology and AI are exclusive to Silicon Valley. By leveraging youth influencers, companies hope to shift that narrative to attract younger talent to the sector.
Adam El Rafey is a 16-year-old InnoTrans ambassador who began his public speaking career at age eight. He previously completed a six-month internship at Hitachi Rail and began his Computer Science studies at age 12.
The players
Adam El Rafey
He is a 16-year-old InnoTrans ambassador and student who began his university studies in computer science at age 12.
Thibault Constant
He is a content creator and co-founder of the night train company Nox who was recognized for his work in mobility communications.
The details
Content creators serve as vital bridges between complex industry innovation and young audiences who otherwise feel disconnected from rail. Experts suggest that corporations can improve engagement by forming dedicated youth boards and offering collaborative internship opportunities.
Timeline
Adam El Rafey addressed the Railway Influencer Festival on September 30, 2026.
Thibault Constant received the Best Mobility Channel award in 2024.
Culture Shift
This move highlights a broader shift as the railway industry abandons traditional corporate messaging in favor of youth-led social media strategies. It follows the industry-wide trend toward youth-led social media outreach to compete with Silicon Valley for top technical talent.
Young enthusiasts may see more opportunities for internships and collaborative roles as companies prioritize youth boards. This trend could change how teenagers view professional paths in technical fields by highlighting the role of AI and innovation in rail.
The takeaway
The rail industry is working to redefine its image as a cutting-edge field powered by modern technology rather than just legacy systems. Young professionals can maximize their career prospects by identifying industries currently undergoing this pivot toward digital-first communication.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest trends in the /youth sector.
Live Poll
Do you believe the railway industry is effectively attracting young talent today?
