Call for Application: Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding

Application Deadline: September 29, 2026

Applications are open for the 0 Storytelling for Peacebuilding activity under the Africa Against Xenophobia Project (AfAX-P). The initiative invites young Africans to use storytelling and digital media to promote unity, tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and responsible online communication.

Organized by the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), a UNESCO Category 2 Institute on Media and Information Literacy, the activity recognizes the growing influence of young people in shaping conversations across Africa.

Participants can submit original work in video, podcast/audio drama, interactive media, or photography. This makes the opportunity particularly relevant to young creatives, storytellers, students, digital media enthusiasts, and changemakers interested in social impact.

With misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech increasingly influencing public conversations, the project provides a platform for young Africans to tell alternative stories—ones that celebrate Africa’s diversity and encourage understanding across communities and borders.

About the Africa Against Xenophobia Project

The Africa Against Xenophobia Project (AfAX-P) is an IMILI initiative focused on addressing xenophobia and hate that can be fueled by misinformation and disinformation.

The Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding activity puts young people at the centre of this effort. Rather than simply discussing the problem, participants are encouraged to create compelling digital narratives that can influence attitudes and encourage peaceful relationships.

The initiative also demonstrates how media and information literacy can be applied beyond the classroom. By creating responsible and engaging content, young Africans can contribute to healthier digital spaces while developing valuable communication and creative skills.

Benefits of Participating

Selected participants can gain:

• Cash prizes for the Top 20 winning entries.
• Mentorship with leading media professionals.
• Invitation to an exclusive virtual workshop for the Top 20 winners.
• Exposure through AfAX-P activities for the Top 50 finalists.
• Potential publication of selected stories on the IMILI website and educational resources.
• Support to use submissions in community engagement and peacebuilding activities.
• A Certificate of Participation for all participants.

Who Can Participate?

The opportunity is open to applicants who meet these requirements:

• Age: 15–30 years old at the time of submission.
• Nationality: African nationality or heritage.
• Location: Applicants may live in Africa or in the African diaspora.
• Originality: Entries must be original and must not have been previously published or awarded.
• Languages: English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, or an African language. Non-English entries must include English subtitles.

Submission Categories

Applicants can choose one category:

• Video: Short films, documentaries, animations, cartoons, or vlogs; maximum 3 minutes and MP4 format.
• Podcast/Audio Drama: Original audio narratives, interviews, or soundscapes; maximum 3 minutes.
• Interactive Media: Web stories, digital comics, interactive presentations, or games submitted through a functional URL.
• Photography: High-resolution original photographs accompanied by a 100–200-word explanation. AI-generated images must be declared.

How to Apply and Key Dates

Create an original story addressing the theme of combating misinformation- and disinformation-driven xenophobia while promoting unity, tolerance, and peace.

Submit your entry through the  official  portal

After submission, participants should share their entry on social media and tag #imilinstitute and #AfricaAgainstXenophobia.

Important dates:

• Application period: August 1–September 29, 2026
• Top 50 finalists announced: November 30, 2026
• Top 20 winners announced: December 15, 2026

Why You Should Apply: Tips for a Strong Entry

This opportunity is about more than producing attractive content. The assessment gives significant weight to creativity and originality (25%) and impact and message (25%), while relevance to the theme accounts for another 20%.

Start with a strong human story. Instead of simply telling viewers that xenophobia is harmful, show how misinformation or stereotypes can affect relationships between people.

Keep your message focused. With a three-minute limit for video and audio entries, every scene, sound, and word should contribute to the central idea.

Think beyond production quality. A technically polished submission is useful, but a memorable idea with an authentic perspective can make a stronger impression.

Finally, take social media engagement seriously. The assessment allocates 15% to engagement, so share your entry strategically, encourage meaningful discussion, and respond constructively to comments.

Conclusion

The Digital Storytelling for Peacebuilding opportunity gives young Africans a chance to combine creativity, digital skills, and social impact while contributing to a more tolerant and connected continent.

If you have a story that can challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, or inspire peaceful coexistence, this is an opportunity worth exploring. Prepare your idea early, follow the submission requirements carefully, and submit before September 29, 2026.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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