The International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), a UNESCO Category 2 Institute on Media and Information Literacy, is inviting young Africans to participate in its Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding activity under the Africa Against Xenophobia Project (AfAX-P). The initiative provides young creatives with a platform to use digital storytelling to promote unity, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible communication, while challenging xenophobia, hate speech, misinformation and disinformation across Africa. The submission period runs from 1 August to 29 September 2026. Participants can submit original work in video, podcast/audio drama, interactive media or photography. About the Africa Against Xenophobia Project AfAX-P is an IMILI initiative focused on addressing xenophobia and hate that can be amplified by misinformation and disinformation. The project recognizes the influence young people and digital media have in shaping public conversations and seeks to encourage narratives that celebrate Africa’s diversity. Through the Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding activity, participants are expected to create compelling stories that challenge harmful narratives and encourage greater understanding, tolerance and solidarity among African communities. Who Can Participate? The opportunity is open to young people who meet the following criteria: Applicants must be 15 to 30 years old at the time of submission. Participants must be of African nationality or heritage. Applicants may reside anywhere in Africa or in the African diaspora. Entries must be original works created by the participant or participating team. Submitted works must not have been previously published or awarded. Entries may be produced in English, French, Arabic, Portuguese or an African language. Entries in languages other than English must include English subtitles. The opportunity is therefore open to a broad range of young African storytellers, creators and digital media enthusiasts. Submission Categories Participants can submit their work in one of four categories. Video: Participants may submit short films, documentaries, animations, cartoons or vlogs. Videos must be submitted in MP4 format, with a minimum resolution of 720p and a maximum duration of three minutes. Podcast or Audio Drama: Original audio narratives, interviews and soundscapes are accepted in MP3 or WAV format. Entries should have clear audio quality and must not exceed three minutes. Interactive Media: Participants may create web-based stories, digital comics, interactive presentations or games. A functional URL and any necessary access instructions must be provided. Photography: Participants can submit original high-resolution photographs in JPEG or PNG format. Each photograph must have a title and a 100–200-word description explaining its context and message. Minor digital enhancements are permitted, while AI-generated images must be clearly declared. Assessment Criteria Entries will be evaluated using five key criteria. Relevance to the theme accounts for 20%, assessing how effectively the work addresses unity, tolerance and peace. Creativity and originality accounts for 25%, while impact and message carries another 25%. Judges will consider whether the entry presents a distinctive perspective and communicates a compelling message capable of resonating with young audiences. Technical quality accounts for 15%, assessing execution within the selected medium. The remaining 15% is allocated to social media engagement, including likes, shares and comments generated by the submission. Prizes and Recognition The initiative provides substantial visibility and development opportunities for participants. The Top 50 finalists will have their works featured across AfAX-P activities. From these finalists, 20 winners will receive cash prizes, mentorship opportunities with leading media professionals and invitations to an exclusive virtual workshop where they can discuss the stories behind their submissions. Selected works may also be published on the IMILI website and incorporated into educational resources. Finalists will receive support and encouragement to use their work within their communities as part of the wider Africa Against Xenophobia campaign. In addition, all participants will receive Certificates of Participation. How to Participate Participants should develop an original digital story addressing the theme of combating misinformation- and disinformation-driven xenophobia while promoting peace, unity and tolerance. Entries should then be submitted online through the official Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding submission form. Participants are also encouraged to share their work on social media and use the official campaign hashtags to increase engagement. Creators should ensure that their submissions meet the technical requirements for their selected category and clearly communicate a positive, authentic and meaningful message. Important Dates Submission period: 1 August – 29 September 2026 Top 50 finalists announced: 30 November 2026 Top 20 winners announced: 15 December 2026 Why Young Africans Should Participate The Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding activity provides young Africans with an opportunity to transform creativity into social impact. Participants can use film, photography, audio, interactive technology and other digital formats to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote more constructive conversations about Africa. Beyond potential prizes, the programme offers opportunities for recognition, mentorship, publication, networking and participation in a wider continental campaign against xenophobia and hate. How to Submit Interested participants should complete the Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding online submission form before 29 September 2026. VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.