The countdown has begun for the 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, which promises to bring together the brightest young minds from across the continent to shape the future of Africa's tourism industry.

Young African entrepreneurs have until the end of February 2025 to submit their groundbreaking ideas for the competition, which will be a major highlight of the 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Summit (AYTIS) 2025. This prestigious summit will take place from June 10 to 13, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya.

A platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs in tourism, AYTIS 2025 will serve as a dynamic event where creativity meets opportunity. The summit aims to highlight and support youth-led innovation in tourism, providing a platform to showcase fresh, transformative ideas to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and policymakers. A key feature of AYTIS 2025 will be the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, which has rapidly become one of the summit’s most anticipated components.

Now open for entries, the Innovation Challenge invites youth to submit projects that promote technological advancements, sustainability, and community engagement within the tourism sector. These initiatives will not only demonstrate innovation but also offer practical solutions to the most pressing challenges in tourism across the continent.

The winner of last year’s competition, Joseph Owiredu, CEO of Fihankra ComTech Limited from Ghana, secured the prestigious Best Young Innovator Award with his project on personal safety and security innovations in tourism. He was selected from over 154 applicants, with Rosalia Haufiku Laudika and Ajena Jafar claiming second and third places. As Owiredu’s victory marks a new chapter for African youth in tourism innovation, the baton is now passed to the next generation of innovators.

AYTIS 2025 will aim to unearth the next rising star in tourism innovation by encouraging young entrepreneurs to submit proposals that address critical issues such as digital transformation, sustainable tourism, and community-driven initiatives. The finalists will pitch their ideas to a panel of industry experts and decision-makers during the summit in Nairobi, gaining invaluable exposure and networking opportunities with the leaders shaping the tourism industry across the globe.

Kenya, renowned for its stunning wildlife safaris and rich cultural heritage, provides an exciting backdrop for AYTIS 2025. From the Maasai Mara’s iconic wildlife to the serene beauty of the Ngong Hills, Nairobi is not only a gateway to the heart of the continent’s tourism sector but also a symbol of the continent’s growing innovation in the sector. The city is home to world-class tourism infrastructure, offering a perfect environment for the summit and the Innovation Challenge.

Over 400 entrepreneurs, senior industry executives, and government officials will gather in Nairobi for the summit to explore new ideas, strengthen cross-border partnerships, and discuss the future of African tourism. This event is expected to be an essential moment for fostering intra-African travel, supporting sustainable tourism practices, and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of Africa’s youth.

For the finalists of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, the summit is more than just a pitch competition. It is a gateway to opportunities for mentorship, funding, partnerships, and professional development. The Challenge is designed to empower young innovators to turn their projects into reality, providing them with the support they need to make lasting, impactful changes in the tourism industry.

Organised by the Africa Tourism Partners, in partnership with UN Tourism, AfCFTA and 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 from across the world, with no restrictions on gender, race, or physical ability. 

To enter, participants must submit projects that demonstrate originality, sustainability, and the potential to impact the tourism industry positively. The projects should address pressing issues in the tourism sector, including technological advances, social entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. A clear project timeline and a demo or minimum viable product (MVP) will also be required.

The benefits for winners of the Innovation Challenge are significant. The first-place winner will receive US$1,000 in prizes, while the first and second runners-up will each take home US$500 worth of prizes. All winners and finalists will enjoy professional development opportunities, including complimentary enrolment in short courses offered by UN Tourism. Moreover, they will be included in the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network, gaining access to mentorship, career opportunities, and global exposure.

Joram Mwinamo, co-host and CEO of SNDBX Kenya, emphasised the transformative potential of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge: “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. AYTIS 2025 will provide the stage for young African innovators to showcase their ideas to the world.”

The challenge 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, where they will compete for the top honors. The winner will be announced later in the year at the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards, where they will also gain further recognition for their efforts.

The 7th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge is an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to be part of a new wave of innovation in the tourism sector. By participating, youth will have the chance to make a tangible impact, shaping the future of tourism on the continent. 

Entries are now open, and the clock is ticking. Interested individuals and organisations can submit their proposals via the official website: https://youthtourismsummit.com/. This is your chance to innovate, collaborate, and make your mark on the tourism industry. Don’t miss out!