The countdown has started for the 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, set to gather the brightest young innovators from across the continent to shape the future of Africa’s tourism industry.
Young entrepreneurs have until the end of February 2025 to submit their innovative ideas for the competition, which will be a key highlight of the 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Summit (AYTIS) 2025, taking place from June 10 to 13, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya.
AYTIS 2025 will serve as a dynamic platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs in tourism, showcasing fresh and transformative ideas to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and policymakers. The Innovation Challenge is one of the summit’s most anticipated features, encouraging youth to submit projects that promote technological advancements, sustainability, and community engagement in the tourism sector.
The winner of last year’s competition, Joseph Owiredu from Ghana, CEO of Fihankra ComTech Limited, was awarded the Best Young Innovator Award for his personal safety and security innovations in tourism. With over 154 applicants, Owiredu’s win highlighted the potential for youth-driven solutions in the sector. The baton now passes to the next generation of innovators.
This year’s Innovation Challenge invites young entrepreneurs to present proposals addressing critical issues like digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and community-driven initiatives. Finalists will pitch their ideas to a panel of industry experts during the summit in Nairobi, gaining exposure and networking opportunities with global leaders in the tourism industry.
Nairobi, known for its iconic wildlife safaris and rich cultural heritage, will provide an exciting backdrop for AYTIS 2025. The city’s world-class tourism infrastructure offers the perfect environment for the summit and the Innovation Challenge, serving as a gateway to Africa’s tourism sector and a hub of innovation.
Over 400 entrepreneurs, industry executives, and government officials are expected to attend the summit, exploring new ideas, strengthening cross-border partnerships, and discussing the future of African tourism. The event will promote intra-African travel, sustainable tourism practices, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Africa’s youth.
For finalists, the summit is more than just a competition. It’s a chance for mentorship, funding, partnerships, and professional development. The Challenge is designed to empower young innovators to turn their ideas into reality, making lasting, impactful changes in the tourism sector.
Organized by Africa Tourism Partners in collaboration with UN Tourism, AfCFTA, BDO South Africa, and TEAMS Africa, this year’s competition is open to youth aged 18-35, as well as postgraduate students and young professionals globally, with no restrictions on gender, race, or physical ability.
To participate, entrants must submit original, sustainable projects with the potential to positively impact tourism. These projects should address issues such as technological advancements, social entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability, along with a project timeline and demo or minimum viable product (MVP).
Winners will receive significant prizes, including US$1,000 for the first place and US$500 for the runners-up. All finalists will also enjoy professional development opportunities, including enrollment in short courses offered by UN Tourism, and will gain access to the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network for mentorship, career opportunities, and global exposure.
Joram Mwinamo, co-host and CEO of SNDBX Kenya, emphasized the transformative potential of the Innovation Challenge, stating, “This platform is more than just a competition; it’s a catalyst for creating jobs, promoting sustainability, and empowering young people across the continent to take charge of their future in tourism.”
The competition timeline is as follows:
- Challenge Opens: December 10, 2024
- Deadline for Entries: February 28, 2025
- Top 20 Shortlist Announced: March 14, 2025
- Bootcamp: March 31 – April 4, 2025
- Resubmission Deadline: April 11, 2025
- Final Judging: April 18, 2025
- Pitch Battle: June 11, 2025
- Top 5 Announced: June 13, 2025
Finalists will present their projects during the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit in Nairobi, competing for top honors. The winner will be announced later at the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards, gaining further recognition for their efforts.
The 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge offers young entrepreneurs the opportunity to be part of a new wave of tourism innovation, shaping the future of the sector on the continent.