The Anzisha Prize

The Anzisha Prize celebrates and supports Africa’s youngest, most innovative entrepreneurs, between the ages of 15-22, who have created successful business ventures or social projects across the continent. Each year, 25 incredible young people are selected as Anzisha Fellows – young leaders with growing businesses who can be role models to a new generation. The stories of these entrepreneurs must be documented, celebrated, and shared. We call it the #AnzishaEffect, and it is the power of stories about the very youngest entrepreneurs among us to encourage others to follow in their footsteps in every corner of the continent. Africa needs strong, innovative entrepreneurial young leaders to create jobs, solve problems and drive our economies. Our continent’s future will be determined by entrepreneurial leaders across all sectors. We believe fundamentally in the power of youth-led change. The Anzisha Prize in collaboration with the African Leadership Academy and The MasterCard Foundation, not only seeks to support young entrepreneurs but the ecosystem around youth entrepreneurship in Africa. Each year, 25 fellows join our three-year venture-building program. Throughout their three years, fellows receive high-touch support, participate in skills development workshops, participate in experiential learning opportunities and earn biannual cash stipends. At the end of their second year, fellows stand a chance to win one of four grand prizes, each valued at $10 000. Anzisha Fellows are supported for life as part of African Leadership Academy’s approach to youth development. Mentorship, consulting and community gatherings become part of the fellow experience in the years that follow as they grow their business ventures from strength the strength. The Anzisha Fellow program helps them become the best they can be!