One of Africa’s most prestigious youth entrepreneurship competition, Anzisha Prize is rewarding young Africans who are changing the continent and their societies for the better. Applications have now opened for the latest cohort, with successful entrepreneurs standing a chance to win a shared prize of US$100 000 (R1.4 million).
Young entrepreneurs are among the hardest hit during the Covid-19 crisis. Hence all the successful entrepreneurs will also join the prestigious Anzisha prize fellowship program. As the Covid-19 pandemic disrupts the world, young entrepreneurs are building opportunities for their communities and peers.
The Regional Head, Eastern and Southern Africa, Mastercard Foundation, Daniel Hailu said, “The Anzisha Prizes’ commitment to identifying and supporting very young entrepreneurs has only become more important in the wake of the pandemic,”
“To drive economic recovery on the continent, we have to tap into every available resource. That includes young entrepreneurs, including young women entrepreneurs.Doing so takes intentionality.”
Last year the Anzisha prize, a partnership between African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation, celebrated 10 years of supporting Africa’s youngest entrepreneurs. To date, about 142 business owners in the program have created more than 2500 jobs.
Youth employment continues to be a key challenge in many countries and Africa’s high unemployment rate is one of the leading barriers to growth prosperity on the continent. Young entrepreneurs are an indication that the youth demographic could be the asset needed to transform the continent’s employment climate.
The Deputy Director of the Anzisha Prize, Melissa Mbazo-Ekpenyong said, “The world of work has drastically changed as we experience a global pandemic. Young entrepreneurs have remained steadfast and have supported their communities through difficulties. We’re thrilled to celebrate the next 20 young business owners who are, no doubt, paramount to job creation on the continent.”
For more information on the Anzisha Prize, to apply and to nominate an entrepreneur, please visit the Anzisha Prize website: ➢ Website: www.anzishaprize.org/apply➢Website: www.anzishaprize.org/nominate ➢ Facebook: www.facebook.com/anzishaprize
