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The Mandela Rhodes Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Äänit Prize for African Social Impact Innovators 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
The Äänit Prize supports initiatives that can deliver positive social impact for Africa’s most marginalised populations. The competition is open to alumni of the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship and the Rhodes Scholarship.
Entrants must be Mandela Rhodes Alumni (any year from 2005 onwards) or Rhodes Scholar Alumni (from 2005 onwards).
Entrants must demonstrate that they are contributing (or will contribute) to one of the below impact areas in Africa.
Entrants must be founders, co-founders or members of the executive team of the business or organisation which they are entering.
Non-Profit and For-Profit initiatives are both eligible. Initiatives at different stages of development can apply.
Successful candidates will be expected to stay with their projects for two years from the time of the award.
Step 1: Indicate interest (20 May 2026 – 17 June 2026)
Submit a short motivation explaining why your project, business or idea is socially impactful. Tell us how you plan to realise it and why you're the ideal person/team that has what it takes to make it happen. Don't self-exclude — we've designed this part of the process to make applying quick, easy and approachable.
Step 2: Wait to be invited to apply
We will review all of the indications of interest and then invite candidates to submit full applications. We will let you know if you are not successful.
Step 3: Submit your application (1 July 2026 – 21 July 2026)
Submit your application. This will include a written project statement, a project/business plan (maximum of 12 pages) and relevant supporting documents. All applications will be evaluated by reviewers with relevant experience and expertise.
Step 4: Prepare to pitch
The longlisted candidates will be invited to an interview in the week of 17 August 2026, which will include a short pitch that builds on the value proposition of your written application.
Step 5: Iterate and improve
The candidates invited to the final round will receive written comments. They will have 48 hours to improve their proposals and record a two-minute pitch to submit.
Step 6: Winners decided
The shortlisted candidates' applications will be sent to an external, independent panel of judges. They will make a final decision on how many winners to choose, and how to allocate the prize money.
Apply for Mandela Rhodes Foundation - Äänit Prize for African Social Impact Innovators
