Are you a student or individual that is passionate about telling stories that reflect the realities and dreams of African youth? Here’s your chance to share your voice and get rewarded for it. If you know you are good and sound at writing stories and essays, the Meraki Afrique writing competition is your best target. You can also check here for other scholarships that you might have missed.
About the Meraki Afrique scholarship
Meraki Afrique is a platform dedicated to telling authentic African stories and amplifying youth voices across the continent. Through initiatives like this, it encourages dialogue, creativity, and cultural exchange among young Africans. So, if you believe you need a platform that allows you to tell your authentic story and air your voice creatively, this is the best one for you.
Eligibility for the scholarship
To be eligible for this essay writing competition, you must be in;
a. high school,
b. undergraduate,
c. and postgraduate students across Africa. Whether you’re still in school or pursuing advanced studies, you’re welcome to participate.
d. Nigerians and other African countries can write this contest ( either you are in school or pursuing advance studies)
Theme for the Essay competition
The Meraki Afrique Writing Competition 2025, supported by German Cooperation (GIZ), invites young Africans to write on the theme:
“No Visa, No Problem? Youth Perspectives on Intra-Africa Mobility.”
Hint about the essay contest that could be of help to students who are writing; This year’s competition focuses on youth migration within Africa — the journeys, the challenges, and the hopes that come with moving across borders on the same continent.
Benefits of the Essay contest
Winners stand a chance to earn cash prizes and publication features:
Explore more opportunities like this
- 1st Prize: $300 + Interview & Publication
- 2nd Prize: $200 + Feature
- 3rd Prize: $150 + Feature
- 2 Honourable Mentions: $50 each
This isn’t just about winning money; it’s about getting your story to a wider audience. It is advisable for students to participate in the essay competition.
How to submit the essay
Applicants must follow the laid down guidelines during their period of submission;
- Write an essay between 900–1,300 words.
- Your entry can be a personal story, short fiction, or opinion piece — as long as it focuses on youth migration in Africa.
- Submit your work as a PDF or Word document to hello@merakiafrique.org.
- Use this email subject line: “Meraki Writing Competition Entry.”
Deadline for Application
All entries must be submitted by 7 November 2025.
Don’t wait till the last minute — start writing now and let your voice travel across borders.
How to Apply
- Write Your Essay
Create an original essay between 900 and 1,300 words.
Your piece can be a personal story, short fiction, or opinion article; just make sure it focuses on youth migration or mobility within Africa.
Keep it authentic, engaging, and written in your own voice. - Save Your File
Save your essay as either a PDF or a Word document (.doc or .docx).
Use a simple file name like:
YourFullName_MerakiEssay2025.pdf - Compose Your Email
Open your email app and address it to: hello@merakiafrique.org
Use the subject line: Meraki Writing Competition Entry
In the email body, include:- Your full name
- Your school or university
- Your country
- A short introduction (2–3 sentences about yourself)
- Attach Your Essay
Add your saved essay file to the email as an attachment. - Send Before the Deadline
Submit your entry on or before 7 November 2025.
Late entries may not be considered, so it’s best to send it early.
Make sure you check for errors and mistakes before you send in your essay. Goodluck!
