Application Deadline: 17 June 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Äänit Prize. The Äänit Prize supports initiatives that can deliver positive social impact for Africa’s most marginalised populations. The competition is open to alumni of the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship and the Rhodes Scholarship. Äänit means “common work” or “joint effort” in the language Koalib, a minority language spoken in Sudan.
This year, the prize will fund up to $100,000, and we are expanding the scope to also recognise alumni who are driving innovative, impactful work within existing organisations, in the non-profit, for-profit or hybrid sectors.
How to Apply
Step 1: Indicate interest (20 May 2026 – 17 June 2026)
Submit a short motivation explaining why your project, business or idea is socially impactful. Tell us how you plan to realise it and why you’re the ideal person/team that has what it takes to make it happen.
Step 2: Wait to be invited to apply
We will review all of the indications of interest and then invite candidates to submit full applications. We will let you know if you are not successful.
Step 3: Submit your application (1 July 2026 – 21 July 2026)
Submit your application. This will include a written project statement, a project/business plan (maximum of 12 pages) and relevant supporting documents. All applications will be evaluated by reviewers with relevant experience and expertise.
Step 4: Prepare to pitch
The longlisted candidates will be invited to an interview in the week of 17 August 2026, which will include a short pitch that builds on the value proposition of your written application.
Step 5: Iterate and improve
The candidates invited to the final round will receive written comments. They will have 48 hours to improve their proposals and record a two-minute pitch to submit.
Step 6: Winners decided
The shortlisted candidates’ applications will be sent to an external, independent panel of judges. They will make a final decision on how many winners to choose, and how to allocate the prize money.
The winners will be informed and then announced publicly at a celebration on 18 September 2026.
* Finalists must be available online or in person to attend the prize giving ceremony on 18 September 2026 and to attend a press junket the day prior 17 September 2026. Finalists must consent to having their photos and ventures shared in the media.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Äänit Prize
