Apply Now for the AU–EU 25th Anniversary Photography Contest for Young Photographers ( Fully Funded)

Application Deadline: November 7, 2025

The African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) are celebrating 25 years of partnership — a milestone that marks decades of collaboration, innovation, and shared progress between the two continents. To commemorate this anniversary, young photographers across Africa and Europe are invited to participate in the AU–EU 25th Anniversary Photography Contest, a fully funded opportunity that combines creativity, storytelling, and cultural exchange.

This prestigious contest offers emerging photographers a platform to visually capture the essence of the AU–EU relationship — its achievements, transformative impact, and the enduring spirit of cooperation that has shaped lives and communities across borders.

An Opportunity to Showcase Creativity and Impact

The AU–EU Photography Contest encourages young creatives to submit powerful, original photographs that tell stories of connection, innovation, and shared growth. Each image should reflect how this longstanding partnership has inspired progress in areas such as peacebuilding, education, innovation, youth empowerment, and cultural understanding.

Participants have the chance to express their artistic vision while contributing to a collective narrative of unity between Africa and Europe. This initiative not only recognizes individual talent but also strengthens cross-cultural appreciation through visual storytelling.

Exciting Rewards and Global Exposure

Participation in this photography contest is completely free, and the rewards extend far beyond financial prizes.

• 25 finalists will have their work displayed in a high-profile exhibition in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with a possible second showcase in Brussels, Belgium — giving participants international visibility before global audiences, policymakers, and art professionals.
• The selected photographs will also be featured in a digital publication celebrating 25 years of AU–EU partnership — a lasting portfolio that will highlight the creative voices shaping the next generation of African–European cooperation.
• Two grand prize winners will each receive a €500 cash prize and a fully funded trip to Addis Ababa, covering all travel and accommodation expenses, to attend the exhibition and anniversary celebration events.

This unique opportunity not only rewards creative excellence but also opens doors to networking with industry leaders, cultural practitioners, and fellow artists from both continents.

Who Can Apply

The contest is open to young photographers from all African Union and European Union member countries — covering participants from 55 African nations and 27 EU member states.

Eligible applicants should be passionate about photography, storytelling, and cross-cultural understanding. Whether emerging talents or early-career photographers, participants are encouraged to submit images that highlight the diversity, unity, and innovation defining the AU–EU collaboration.

Key Benefits

• Full funding for two winners to travel to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• €500 cash prize each for the top two winners.
• Exhibition opportunity for 25 finalists in Addis Ababa (and possibly Brussels).
• Global exposure through AU–EU digital platforms and media.
• Professional recognition and networking with cultural and institutional leaders.
• Contribution to an international digital publication celebrating AU–EU milestones.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This photography contest serves as more than a competition — it is a cultural bridge that amplifies young voices through the universal language of imagery. It provides a chance for emerging photographers to shape how the world sees African–European relations, inspire collaboration, and celebrate a shared commitment to sustainable development, innovation, and inclusion.

Through their lenses, participants will capture the essence of a partnership that has transformed communities and empowered generations.

How to Apply

Interested participants should submit their entries before 7 November 2025. Early applications are encouraged to ensure consideration.

The AU–EU 25th Anniversary Photography Contest is a gateway to international recognition, creative expression, and meaningful cultural dialogue. For young photographers across Africa and Europe, this is a chance to tell stories that matter, celebrate 25 years of partnership, and inspire the next chapter of collaboration between the two continents

For more.information and to apply,  CLICK HERE

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