Deadline Date: July 26, 2026
The African Futures & Innovation programme of the Institute for Security Studies has opened applications for Young Changemakers 2026, inviting young Africans to contribute ideas that shape conversations on the continent’s future.
The theme of the initiative is “The choices that will shape Africa’s future,” focusing on governance, education, technology, climate action, economic transformation, peace and security, and social development, with an emphasis on how present-day decisions will determine Africa’s trajectory toward 2050.
The African Futures Conference 2026 will showcase emerging young leaders, thinkers, innovators and storytellers from across the continent who are actively engaging with ideas about Africa’s long-term development. The initiative encourages participants to reflect on what kind of future they want for Africa and the choices required to achieve it.
The submission process is open to young Africans between the ages of 18 and 35, including students, professionals, entrepreneurs, activists, researchers, creatives, and community leaders. Applicants are not required to have prior experience in foresight, making the opportunity accessible to a wide range of voices.
Participants are expected to present original and creative perspectives that demonstrate long-term thinking about Africa’s future. The initiative values contributions that are relevant, impactful, and capable of inspiring meaningful dialogue on the continent’s development pathways.
Submissions can be made in written, video, or audio formats, allowing applicants to express their ideas through storytelling, research, or creative communication. The selection process will highlight work that reflects leadership potential and a strong commitment to positive change across African societies.
The conference will be held in a hybrid format on 13–14 October 2026, with an in-person session at CSIR in Pretoria and a virtual component accessible across the continent.
For more information, visit AFI.
