Deadline: 30 June 2024

Do you have a story to share about how Africa can regenerate its landscapes, protect biodiversity, lead climate action and protect the rights and livelihoods of millions? Then apply for African Youth Storytelling Contest.

In this third edition of the annual African storytelling contest, The Stories of Africa, they invite young creators from all over the continent to share stories to inspire a brighter and bolder future for Africa.

They believe storytelling has the power to ignite change, inspire action and connect people across borders. Following the powerful stories they heard in 2022 and 2023, the 2024 Africa Youth Storytelling Contest welcomes stories in a wide variety of formats, including video, audio, visual art, animation or another creative medium.

Themes

  • Your story should share your thoughts, hopes and dreams about a future for Africa that values community, collaboration, inclusivity and resilience. In simple words: what should a bright future for Africa look like?
  • Key themes for your story could include (but are not limited to) food sovereignty, sustainable food systems, biodiverse landscapes, land tenure, ecosystem restoration, gender, climate justice, Indigenous rights, community-led action, youth leadership and sustainable finance.

What’s in it for you?

  • The top 5 to 10 entries will be featured on the website and social media channels, as well as at the GLF Africa 2024 Hybrid Conference, reaching thousands of people in person and online.
  • On top of the opportunity to showcase your talent and share your story with a global audience, the three best stories will receive prizes of EUR 500, 300 and 200 respectively.

Format

  • They welcome a diverse range of storytelling forms that capture at least one of the themes described above. Submissions can take various forms, including:
    • Visual arts or animation: artwork (paintings, sculptures, drawing, photography, etc.) or animations
    • Video: short films, interviews, documentaries, performance art – anything you like!
    • Audio: original poetry, music, podcasts, etc.
    • Another creative medium that showcases your unique perspective.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The contest is open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 35 born in Africa, living in Africa or from the African diaspora.

Selection Criteria

  • Entries will be judged based on the following criteria:
    • Creativity, passion and originality;
    • Relevance to the themes;
    • Vision and pathway for the future of Africa;
    • Clarity of expression and communication of ideas;
    • Overall impact and effectiveness.

For more information, visit GLF.