The Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) and the Youth in Landscapes Initiative (YIL) are hosting a storytelling contest for young Africans to unleash their creativity and share their visions for thriving landscapes across the continent. Let your imagination run wild and your story unfold!

What is the African Storytelling Contest?

Do you have a powerful story to share about your vision for a thriving Africa where landscapes are healthy, communities prosper, and justice prevails? 

The African Storytelling Contest believes that storytelling has the power to ignite change, inspire action and connect people across borders. After an incredible storytelling contest last year featuring stories from every corner of the continent, the 2023 Africa Youth Storytelling Contest will provide a platform for your visions to reach a global stage.

Benefits of the African Youth Storytelling Contest

The top 10 to 15 entries will be featured on their website and social media channels, as well as during GLF Nairobi 2023, reaching thousands of people gathered in person and online to forge a brighter future for the world’s landscapes.

Apart from the incredible opportunity to showcase your talent and share your vision with a global audience, the three best stories will receive prizes of EUR 500, 300 and 200 respectively.

Eligibility Requirements

The contest is open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 35 born and/or currently living in Africa or part of the African diaspora.

How to Apply for the African Storytelling Contest

Your story should revolve around the key themes of a thriving Africa, including but not limited to food sovereignty, thriving food systems, biodiverse landscapes, land tenure, ecosystem restoration, gender, climate justice, Indigenous rights, community-led action, youth leadership and sustainable finance.  

Explore the interplay between healthy landscapes and vibrant communities, the pursuit of justice and equity, and pathways to prosperity for all Africans. Share your ideas, hopes, and dreams for a future that embraces community, collaboration, inclusivity and resilience.

Diverse range of storytelling forms that capture the essence of your vision for a thriving Africa are welcomed. 

• Video: short films, interviews, documentaries – anything you like! (In case you’re facing data limitations, you’re welcome to submit audio stories).
• Poetry or music: Original poetry, songs or any other forms of art may also be included in your video or audio story.
• Art or animation: You can submit artwork (paintings, sculptures, etc.) or animations associated with the contest theme.
• Another creative medium that showcases your unique perspective.

Application Tips

Submitting your entry is a breeze! 

• Don’t forget to include a photo of yourself in the application.
• Please remember to include the following in your story (e.g. at the beginning or end of the video or audio):
  • Your full name
  • Your municipality and country
  • The name of your community
  • The logo of your organization (if applicable)

In case you want to send your video or audio story in any language other than English, please also provide an English transcript in the relevant part of the application form.

For more information about the contest, click here.

Submit your story here on or before 31 August 2023.