Advice for entrants

Send us an essay outlining an innovative and implementable idea on how to achieve gender equality. Go into detail about a single innovation, mentioning concrete and relevant examples, showing you understand your local context and how your idea can help drive solutions in South Africa.

How the competition works

Stage 1: Competition open for entries

Stage 2: Mentorship and development for top entries

Stage 3: Round two for top-entry submissions

Stage 4: Winners chosen

Stage 5: Prizegiving

Entries open on 26 July and close on 18 October 2024. The entries are competitively reviewed, and the top entries are selected to move to the mentoring stage. All entrants will be notified of the outcome by email by 8 November 2024.

This competition is for individuals who:

  • are curious and want to learn, grow and challenge themselves.
  • are eager to develop or deepen their thinking and communication skills.
  • are passionate about their ideas for social change and development.

There are no academic requirements for participation and entrants can come from any sector and field, provided they meet the minimum eligibility criteria listed below:

  • You are aged between 18 and 30 years (turning 18 up to 30 during 2024).
  • You live in South Africa.
  • You may not enter if you have previously been a finalist in the YIP.

Entries can be submitted from 26 July until 18 October 2024. You will be required to enter your details when signing up, after which you will receive an email from us. In your reply, you can attach  your proof of ID and entry, in one of the following formats:

  • A written essay of between 1,500 to 2,000 words in Word document format (template provided).
  • A video or an audio essay of between 5 to 8 minutes in length (WeTransfer to youth.innovation@douglas.partners).
  • You need to be between the ages of 18 and 30. Please submit a copy of your ID or passport to prove your age.
  • Your essay must be between 1,500 and 2,000 words or between 5 to 8 minutes of video or audio.
  • Please read the "Advice to entrants" carefully before you submit your essay.
  • Finalists from last year's Youth Innovation Prize are not allowed to enter this year.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about the essay submission process, judging criteria, and selection process.