Young Changemakers Initiative 2026

The Young Changemakers Initiative 2026 identifies and showcases emerging African leaders, thinkers, innovators and storytellers shaping conversations about the continent’s future. It is part of the African Futures Conference 2026, with a process that selects a Top 20 of participants and, from them, five finalists who receive an award and travel support to attend the conference. The conference itself is a hybrid event taking place in October 2026, combining in-person and virtual participation.

Top 20 candidates are selected; five finalists receive the Young Changemakers Award, including travel support to attend the African Futures Conference 2026 in Pretoria. Finalists present their ideas and engage with policymakers, researchers, practitioners and conference participants.

Open to young Africans aged 18–35 from across the continent, including young professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, innovators, activists, creatives and storytellers, community leaders, and students.

Submit via the online application form by 26 July 2026, including a title for submissions, abstract, and short biography with supporting information.