Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling 2026

The Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling honors emerging journalists in Africa who strengthen people’s voices and highlight transformative changes across the continent. The 2026 award is open for entries of groundbreaking journalistic work published between December 1, 2024, and December 1, 2025. The winners will receive a $5,000 cash prize, a personalized certificate, and a two-week internship at The Economist in London, UK. Applications are judged on the quality and impact of the submitted work. Entries are accepted in all media formats and should demonstrate analytical skill and outstanding storytelling.

• Applicants must have no more than 10 years of journalism experience. Applicants must submit one published piece that exemplifies Africa through thoughtful reporting and excellent storytelling. We are looking for impactful investigative or explanatory pieces, especially those that illuminate transformational change in Africa. A copy of the published story or broadcast clip must be submitted in English. Works in other languages must include English translations. We welcome submissions from print, broadcast, or digital journalists. Multimedia submissions may include web, audio, video, visual, or mixed media.