For the first time in the history of the international KARDO contest-award, held under the auspices of the presidential platform “Russia – Land of Opportunity”, Chile and Gambia have held national qualifying rounds. The winners will represent their countries in the final, where the strongest representatives of street culture from around the world will compete for the main prize.

In Gambia, against the backdrop of the colourful Tobaski 2025 festival in Serrekunda, the competition brought together talented DJs, hip-hop performers and graffiti artists. The winners were Bai Ndondi (Hip Hop), Lamin Seck (Graffiti) and DJ Ziggler (DJing).

“The national stage of KARDO in The Gambia marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for Gambian creatives. […] In the future, this event will be held in our country annually,” said Gibril Faal, Ambassador of the award in Gambia and organiser of the national round.

The events in Chile were no less intense: the skateboarding festival in Cerro Navia and the breaking battles in Vina del Mar attracted more than 200 participants. The winners in the nominations were Bastian Saavedra (Skateboarding) and Matias Martinez (Breaking). On 5 July, the final stage will take place in Chile – the workout selection. It will complete the formation of the team that will represent the country in the final in Russia.

Anton Zakutin, Press Secretary of the Russian Embassy in Chile, attended the Chilean stage. He emphasised that street culture is becoming a real bridge of friendship between nations.

“Every step you take is a contribution to the development and popularisation of this vibrant art form. We hope that the trip to Russia to participate in the final will bring many new emotions and impressions, and will allow you to get to know Russian culture in all its manifestations more closely,” he said.

The grand final of the KARDO contest-award will take place in August in Stavropol, Russia. Participants will compete not only for material prizes, but also for the chance to become part of a global cultural movement, receive production support, develop their careers and reach the international level. TV BRICS is the international media partner of the event.

Photo: PR Department of the KARDO Foundation