Applications are now open for the Young Changemakers 2026 initiative, organized by the African Futures & Innovation (AFI) Programme at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) as part of the African Futures Conference 2026.
The initiative aims to identify and showcase emerging African leaders, innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, creatives, community leaders, and storytellers who are shaping conversations about Africa’s future. Outstanding participants will receive recognition, with the top finalists earning travel support to attend the African Futures Conference in Pretoria, South Africa.
Programme Summary
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Young Changemakers 2026 |
| Organizer | African Futures & Innovation (AFI), Institute for Security Studies (ISS) |
| Event | African Futures Conference 2026 |
| Programme Type | Leadership & Innovation Opportunity |
| Eligible Applicants | Young Africans aged 18–35 |
| Conference Format | Hybrid (In-person & Virtual) |
| Conference Dates | 13–14 October 2026 |
| Submission Deadline | 26 July 2026 |
About the Young Changemakers 2026 Initiative
The Young Changemakers initiative provides a platform for young Africans to share bold and innovative ideas about the continent’s future. Participants are invited to explore how today’s decisions on governance, education, technology, climate action, economic transformation, peace and security, and social development will shape Africa by 2050.
The initiative forms part of the African Futures Conference 2026, which will be held in a hybrid format:
- Day 1: In-person at the CSIR, Pretoria, with a livestream.
- Day 2: Fully virtual.
Theme
The choices that will shape Africa’s future
Africa’s future is not predetermined. The decisions made today will determine the continent’s long-term trajectory, and young Africans are invited to imagine the future they want while proposing the choices needed to achieve it.
Guiding Questions
Applicants may consider addressing questions such as:
- What kind of Africa do you want to see in 2050?
- What choices will determine whether that future becomes reality?
- What risks should Africa avoid?
- What opportunities should Africa embrace?
- What actions should governments, businesses, communities, and young people take today?
- What role can your generation play in shaping Africa’s future?
Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Recognition as one of the Top 20 Young Changemakers 2026.
- Opportunity to showcase innovative ideas before an international audience.
- The Top 5 finalists will receive:
- Young Changemakers Award.
- Travel support to attend the African Futures Conference 2026 in Pretoria.
- Opportunity to present their ideas during the conference.
- Direct engagement with policymakers, researchers, practitioners, and conference participants.
- Continental recognition for leadership, creativity, and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be 18–35 years old.
- Be a young African from any country on the continent.
- Fall into one or more of the following categories:
- Young professionals.
- Researchers.
- Entrepreneurs.
- Innovators.
- Activists.
- Creatives and storytellers.
- Community leaders.
- Students.
- No previous experience in foresight is required.
Submission Formats
Applicants may submit their ideas in one of the following formats:
- Written submission: Maximum 1,500 words (PDF or Word).
- Video submission: 3–5 minutes (MP4).
- Audio/Podcast submission: 3–5 minutes (MP3 or equivalent).
Selection Criteria
Entries will be assessed based on:
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- Originality and creativity.
- Relevance to Africa’s future.
- Evidence of long-term and futures-oriented thinking.
- Leadership potential and commitment to positive change.
- Potential impact and inspiration.
- Quality of storytelling and presentation.
- Contribution to conversations about Africa’s future.
Required Information for Application
Applicants must submit:
- A title for their submission.
- A short abstract (maximum 250 words).
- A short biography.
- Supporting information.
- Their submission in one of the accepted formats.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: 26 July 2026
- Top 20 Young Changemakers Announced: 7 August 2026
- Top 5 Finalists Announced: 19 August 2026
- African Futures Conference: 13–14 October 2026
Partners and Supporters
The African Futures Conference 2026 is supported by:
- Robert Bosch Academy.
- Hanns Seidel Foundation.
- A growing network of African and international partners committed to advancing foresight, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable development across Africa.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the official online application before the deadline.
Applications should include:
- Submission title.
- Abstract.
- Biography.
- Supporting information.
- Written, video, or audio submission.
Visit the official application page to submit your entry before 26 July 2026.
Conclusion
The Young Changemakers 2026 initiative is an outstanding opportunity for young Africans with bold ideas about the continent’s future. Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, researcher, creative, activist, or community leader, this programme offers continental recognition, networking opportunities, and a chance to influence conversations that will shape Africa’s future. Outstanding participants will also receive travel support to attend the African Futures Conference 2026 and present their ideas before leading policymakers and experts across Africa. Submit your application before 26 July 2026 to be considered.
