The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School is launching a Pan-African Youth Competition under a project on dignified and fulfilling job creation for young Africans by the nonprofit sector, supported and funded by one of our partners.
We invite dynamic teams and organisations owned and managed by young people between the ages of 18 and 35 to design and produce creative outputs that disseminate findings from a study covering 17 African countries. The research explores the contribution of the nonprofit sector to dignified and fulfilling work for African youth.
Read more about the research here: https://capsi.co.za/research-reports/ can we have a link to the research findings.
This competition will run across four regions:
- North Africa
- West Africa
- East Africa
- Southern Africa
Prizes
• $27,000 disbursed in subsequent tranches, linked to different stages of the project’s development and delivery
In addition to financial awards, winners will gain mentorship, visibility on CAPSI platforms and partner networks, and opportunities to present their work at policy and donor forums across Africa.
What We’re Looking For
Participants are encouraged to use creative and tech-savvy formats that resonate with youth audiences. Examples include:
- Digital Media: Short films, animations, documentaries
- Visual Arts: Infographics, illustrations, photography
- Performing Arts: Spoken word, music videos, dance
- Interactive Media: Podcasts, apps, games, web storytelling
- Writing: Blogs, short stories, narrative journalism
Key Dates
- Call Launch: 19 September 2025
- Submission Deadline: 15 October 2025
- Winners Announced: 31 October 2025
Eligibility
Applications must be submitted by teams or organisations owned and managed by young people (18–35 years old). A vetting process will be conducted, and entrants will be required to provide valid identification. Any false information, including misrepresentation of age, will result in immediate disqualification.
- Preference will be given to applicants from the 17 project countries.
- While the final products will be translated into different languages, applications must be submitted in English.
Selection Process
- After the submission of proposals, shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews with the review panel.
- Shortlisted teams/organisations will also be required to present samples of their proposed work to demonstrate capacity and creativity before final selection.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted via the online portal here.
