Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: January 9, 2026
The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), in partnership with the ONE Campaign, invites applications for the 2026 Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling. This prestigious award honors the legacy of Michael Elliott, a celebrated editor and visionary journalist who believed in the power of storytelling to inspire change.
The award recognizes emerging African journalists who produce compelling human-interest stories that shed light on the transformative power of everyday individuals and communities. The program offers a unique blend of monetary reward, mentorship, and global exposure, empowering journalists to strengthen their storytelling craft and impact.
Through this initiative, ICFJ and ONE continue to nurture journalistic excellence across Africa, encouraging a new generation of storytellers who amplify local voices and drive social progress through powerful reporting.
Benefits
- Cash Prize: Winners receive a US$5,000 cash award to recognize outstanding journalistic achievement.
- Professional Development: A two-week tailored training and mentoring program at The Economist’s headquarters in London, UK, offering hands-on exposure to world-class journalism practices.
- Networking Opportunities: Interaction with leading editors, reporters, and media professionals in global journalism circles.
- Public Recognition: Winners gain international visibility through ICFJ and ONE’s global platforms.
- Editorial Mentorship: Access to mentorship opportunities that help refine investigative and narrative storytelling skills.
SEE ALSO: The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) Young Leaders in Research (YLR) Grant 2026 for early-career African researchers ($15,000 research grant)
Eligibility Criteria
- The contest is open to English-speaking journalists working in Africa for print, broadcast, and online news media. 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.
- The submitted story must be published between December 1, 2024, and December 1, 2025.
A distinguished international jury, including media leaders from the US, UK, and Africa, will select the winners. We will reach out to all applicants to notify them of their status by the spring of 2026.
Application Process and Documents Required
Interested journalists must complete the online application form on the ICFJ official website. Required documents include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting professional experience and achievements.
- One published story or multimedia piece with an accompanying English translation if necessary.
- Short personal statement (500 words max) outlining motivations, journalistic philosophy, and how the award would contribute to career growth.
- Professional reference letter from an editor or media organization.
