Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2025 opens for entries

AFRICA – Young African innovators in the tourism sector have a new opportunity to showcase their creativity and drive change as entries open for the 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge (AYTIC).

Organized by Africa Tourism Partners in collaboration with partners such as UN Tourism, AfCFTA, and BDO South Africa, the challenge invites African youth aged up to 35 years, including postgraduate students, to submit innovative ideas, technological solutions, and social entrepreneurship projects.

The event forms part of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit, which will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from June 10 to 13, 2025.

“This is a unique platform for young people to make a meaningful impact on the tourism sector by contributing ideas that can enhance operations and improve tourist experiences,” said Joram Mwinamo, CEO of SNDBX Kenya and co-host of the event.

Participants will benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, access to potential investors, and business partnerships. Shortlisted candidates will also gain global exposure through UN Tourism, fintech initiatives, and private sector connections.

Finalists will receive complimentary enrolment in short courses by UN Tourism and be inducted into the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network.

The winners will be awarded cash prizes: $1,000 for the top innovator and $500 each for the first and second runners-up. They will also join the Africa Tourism Innovation Hub, which starts its first cohort in early 2025, facilitated by partnerships with Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Namibia University of Science and Technology.

Top five finalists will demonstrate their projects in Nairobi, presenting five-minute pitches to a panel of judges. Winners will be announced at the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum and Awards, with the venue to be revealed soon.

A look back at the 2024 Challenge

The 6th AYTIC, held in Windhoek, Namibia, demonstrated the initiative’s growing impact. It attracted 114 entries from across the continent.

Gloria Kisulu from Kenya emerged as the winner, with Cornelius Ugwunwa of Nigeria and Ntshabo Lehong of South Africa as runners-up. Along with funding, they received mentorship, partnership opportunities, and professional training through short courses offered by the UNWTO.

The 2024 event featured entrepreneurship masterclasses, B2B sessions, and exhibitions, enabling participants to connect with industry leaders and investors.

The deadline for submissions to the 2025 challenge is February 28, 2025. Young innovators across Africa are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to a sector vital for economic growth and cultural preservation.

“Don’t miss the chance to make your mark,” urged Mwinamo. “Your ideas could shape the future of African tourism.”

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