Anzisha Prize Fellowship Program 2025, a three-year fellowship for young African entrepreneurs between 15 and 22 years old, has opened call for applications for the 2025 for entrepreneurs aged 15 – 22 years from across Africa.
The Anzisha Prize, a venture building fellowship program provides over $140,000 every year in business support and prize money to inspire entrepreneurs that show exemplary growth and initiative for the next level of growth. The applicants are equipped with tools and resources to run successful businesses and celebrate their entrepreneurial endeavors. They receive short courses, cloud services and cash stipends and pitch their businesses for a chance to win $50 000.
The Anzisha Prize has championed and supported over 250 Very Young Entrepreneurs throughout the African continent. By applying to the Anzisha Prize you stand a chance to win a share of grand cash prizes valued over $50 000 and business support for your business. Africa’s future lies in your hands and we want to celebrate your potential to grow your country’s economy and create jobs. Keep following the Anzisha Prize for the latest updates on our Venture Building Fellowship.
In August, Anzisha Prize announced the 2024 Prize winners at their annual Entrepreneurship Education in Africa Awards (EEA) gala event held in Johannesburg, South Africa. The overall winners were Mathias Yabe, Nzinga Antonio, Sharon Alyorneku and Ivo Bonfirm.
Winners took home US$ 10,000 each and enjoy access to a comprehensive support package that includes coaching, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.
Mathias Charles Yabe from Ghana won the prize for job creation. Through his business, Ako Fresh, Yabe offers farmers food preservation and cold storage services to help extend the shelf life of crops. Not only does this minimise post-harvest loss but is also environmentally friendly given that the cold storage facilities are solar powered. The business creates jobs both directly and indirectly across its supply chain.
Angolan N’zinga António won the award for outstanding system delivery for her business Confeitaria Gailza – a small bakery that specializes in selling cakes and pastry products. The award recognises her ability to successfully improve her operations by streamlining her manufacturing process ensuring her goods get into the hands of consumers faster.
Sharon Alyorneku from Ghana was bestowed the award for storytelling. Her business, Peng Street is a fashion house selling trendy clothes that meet the fashion needs of university students across her country and in the continent. It is recognised for changing the story of African fashion for young people.
Ivo Bonfim, founder and CEO of Óptica Ipris Vision Centre in Angola, which manufactures lenses and frames for eyeglasses won the award for revenue.
The Anzisha Prize in partnership with the African Leadership Academy and Mastercard Foundation identifies and recognises exceptional young entrepreneurs who are driving change and making a positive impact in their communities.
“We are thrilled to announce the winners for this fellowship round,” said Dave Tait, Senior Director, Entrepreneurial Education Programs at the Anzisha Prize. “These young entrepreneurs are the future of Africa’s economic growth, development and job creation. Their dedication, creativity, and resilience are truly inspiring.”
The Anzisha Prize received a record number of applications for this fellowship period ending this year, with over 1000 young entrepreneurs from across the continent vying for entry into the prestigious programme. The finalists were selected through a rigorous evaluation process, which included a thorough assessment of their business models, social impact, and potential for growth and job creation.
