Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2025: Apply Now

The Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2025 is now open for applications. This groundbreaking initiative seeks to empower young innovators across Africa’s travel and tourism sector by providing opportunities for funding, mentorship, and international visibility. The challenge is designed to support and showcase the ingenuity of youth in solving critical challenges within the tourism industry while contributing to the sector's sustainable growth.

Purpose of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge

The Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge offers a dynamic platform for young African entrepreneurs to present their innovative solutions to the challenges facing the tourism industry. Whether addressing issues in technology, community development, or sustainability, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their vision and creativity.

The challenge goes beyond recognition; it aims to foster long-term professional development through partnerships, mentorship, and the opportunity to engage with global industry leaders. By participating, entrants contribute to shaping the future of tourism in Africa, highlighting their role in building a more resilient and sustainable sector.

Prizes and Key Benefits

The Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge offers significant prizes and opportunities for participants to grow their projects and careers.

• Monetary Prizes

  • Winner: USD $1,000 worth of prizes
  • 1st Runner-Up: USD $500 worth of prizes
  • 2nd Runner-Up: USD $500 worth of prizes

• Professional Development:
  Participants will have the chance to access short courses provided by the United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO), helping them develop critical skills for their tourism-related projects.

• Mentorship:
  Gain guidance from experienced professionals within the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network. This mentorship will be invaluable in refining ideas and enhancing the impact of your project.

• Global Exposure:
  Winners and notable participants will have opportunities to present their innovations at renowned international tourism events, building their professional network and gaining significant visibility in the global tourism industry.

Eligibility Criteria

The Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge is open to individuals, partnerships, and organizations that are actively working or planning to work within the tourism sector. Participants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Age: Youth aged 18–35 years, as well as postgraduate students of all ages.
• Inclusivity: The challenge encourages participation from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, race, or physical ability.

This inclusive approach ensures that the challenge supports diverse voices and ideas from across Africa.

How to Apply: Entry Guidelines

To participate in the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, applicants must submit a detailed entry that includes the following:

• Project Overview: Describe the project’s vision, originality, and the problem it aims to solve within the tourism sector.
• Challenge Focus: Demonstrate how the project addresses a specific tourism-related challenge, such as technological innovation, community development, or environmental sustainability.
• Sustainability: Explain the long-term impact and sustainability of the project, highlighting how it can create lasting positive change in the tourism industry.
• Implementation Timeline: Provide a clear timeline for the project’s execution and milestones.
• Support Requirements: Specify the type of support required, such as funding, mentorship, or strategic partnerships.
• Presentation: Prepare a 5-minute demo or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) presentation to showcase your idea.

Each participant is allowed to submit only one entry, and the submission should not exceed 500 words. Entries will be evaluated on the originality of the idea, its relevance to the tourism sector, and the practical steps for its implementation.

Selection Criteria: How Entries Will Be Judged

Submissions to the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Originality: The uniqueness of the idea and how it addresses a current challenge in the tourism industry.
• Sustainability: The environmental, social, and economic impact of the project, and its potential for long-term success.
• Significance: The relevance of the project to the major issues facing tourism in Africa and globally.
• Applicability: The potential for the project to be adapted and applied by other entities in the tourism sector.
• Practicality: The feasibility of the project’s implementation, including clear objectives and actionable steps.
• Impact: The potential for the project to drive significant change in the tourism sector or the communities it aims to serve.

Application Process: How to Get Involved

To submit your entry, visit the official Youth in Tourism IC 2025 application portal. Ensure that you follow the guidelines carefully, as submissions that fail to meet the required criteria may not be considered.

For updates and detailed instructions, check the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge information page regularly.

Deadline for Application: 28 February 2025

This is an incredible opportunity to showcase your innovative ideas, secure crucial support, and contribute to the future of Africa’s tourism industry. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative initiative!

Conclusion

By participating in the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, young innovators can take their projects to the next level, receiving the recognition, support, and resources needed to make a meaningful impact in the tourism sector.

Related

• NABTEB Tourism Questions
• Apply for Fully Funded 2024 UN Tourism Internship
• Creative Business Cup Nigeria 2024: Win 1 Million Naira

Tags