#United States #Anaheim #Pearson #Certiport #Microsoft Office

World Champions Announced at Certiport’s 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist Competition

On July 29, 2026, Pearson proudly revealed the winners of the Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship, a prestigious event that recognizes proficiency in Microsoft Office among students worldwide. Celebrating its 24th year, this championship emphasizes the significance of Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications in equipping learners for academic and professional success.

Held in vibrant Anaheim, California, the competition attracted 135 finalists aged between 13 and 22 from 36 countries who earned spots by excelling in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint certification exams and winning their local contests. The event not only highlights outstanding skills in Microsoft Office but also encourages participants to gain confidence and develop essential digital competencies crucial for the jobs of the future.

Highlighted Winners of the Championship

The championship winners exhibited exceptional skills across various categories:

• - Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 Apps)

1. Sio Keng Nim (Macao, China)
2. Lee Yuan Han (Taiwan)
3. Flor Nathalia Pelaez Guerra (Ecuador)

• - Microsoft Excel (Microsoft 365 Apps)

1. Nguyen Mai Chi (Vietnam)
2. Aleksy Jakub Dobrodziej (Poland)
3. Hoi Kiu Cheng (Hong Kong, China)

• - Microsoft PowerPoint (Microsoft 365 Apps)

1. Santiago Matteus Dardón Pinzón (Guatemala)
2. Ung Man Kit (Macao, China)
3. Nguyen Dinh Bao (Vietnam)

• - Microsoft Word (Office 2019)

1. Reem El Shafii (Lebanon)
2. Valentina Ribatski Baldan (Brazil)
3. Xiao Jun Ting (Taiwan)

• - Microsoft Excel (Office 2019)

1. Zhong Tin Kin (Macao, China)
2. Thanawit Thawonkan (Thailand)
3. Do Le Tuan Kiet (Vietnam)

• - Microsoft PowerPoint (Office 2019)

1. Liang Xinzhi (Macao, China)
2. Helena Bertozzi Pires (Brazil)
3. Amar Azar (USA)

As these students attained their certifications, they proved their determination, skill sets, and confidence to thrive within a constantly evolving digital landscape. Arthur Valentine, President of Assessment and Qualifications at Pearson, expressed admiration for the winners, stating, "These students have not only earned a valuable credential, but they have also proven their commitment and readiness to succeed in today’s dynamic digital world."

Significance of the Competition

The MOS program stands as the sole official Microsoft certification for validating proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, available in over 140 countries and offered in 26 languages. By undertaking these certifications, students not only bolster their job readiness but also enhance their prospects in both educational and professional realms.

Jeana Jorgensen, Corporate Vice President of Global Skilling at Microsoft, underscored the importance of such championships, noting, "This competition celebrates not just technical proficiency but the pivotal role digital skills play in opening up future opportunities for participants."

In a time when employers are increasingly searching for candidates equipped with advanced digital skills, the competition fosters an environment that cultivates future-ready professionals poised to excel in a tech-driven economy.

As the world continues to evolve rapidly, opportunities like the Certiport Microsoft Office Specialist Championship pave the way for students to secure their future by providing them with the essential skills needed in the modern workforce. For more information about the championship and how to participate in future events, interested individuals can visit the Pearson Certiport website.