The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), in partnership with the ONE Campaign and the Elliott family, has officially opened applications for the 2026 Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling—one of the most prestigious recognitions for emerging journalists on the continent.
This award celebrates groundbreaking journalism that amplifies people’s voices and highlights transformational change across Africa.
What Is the Michael Elliott Award?
The Michael Elliott Award honors up-and-coming African journalists whose work reflects:
- Powerful storytelling
- Strong analytical and investigative reporting
- Measurable impact within communities
The award recognizes published journalistic work that sheds light on Africa’s evolving social, political, economic, and cultural landscape.
Submissions are welcome across print, broadcast, and digital media, including multimedia storytelling formats.
What Do Winners Receive?
Selected winners will receive:
- 💰 $5,000 cash prize
- 📜 Personalized award certificate
- 🌍 A fully funded two-week internship at The Economist in London, UK
📅 Internship Dates:
June 22 – July 3, 2026
This is a rare opportunity to gain international newsroom experience at one of the world’s most respected publications.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be English-speaking journalists working in Africa
- Work in print, broadcast, or online news media
- Have no more than 10 years of journalism experience
- Submit one published piece that exemplifies thoughtful reporting and excellent storytelling about Africa
- Demonstrate impact, especially investigative or explanatory journalism that highlights transformational change
Accepted Media Formats
You may submit work in:
- Print journalism
- Broadcast journalism
- Digital journalism
- Multimedia formats (audio, video, web, visual, or mixed media)
📌 Important:
- All submissions must be in English, or include an English translation if originally published in another language
- Broadcast submissions must include a clip or recording
How Are Winners Selected?
A distinguished international jury of media leaders from Africa, the UK, and the United States will evaluate submissions based on:
- Quality of storytelling
- Depth of analysis
- Journalistic excellence
- Real-world impact on communities
All applicants will be notified of their application status by Spring 2026.
About Michael Elliott
The award honors the legacy of Michael Elliott, an exceptional editor, philanthropist, and former director of ICFJ. He held senior editorial roles at The Economist, Newsweek, and Time, before serving as CEO of the ONE Campaign.
Michael Elliott believed deeply in the power of journalism to bear witness, elevate voices, and improve the human condition. This award reflects his lifelong commitment to both great storytelling and Africa’s progress.
Why You Should Apply
If your work:
- Challenges narratives
- Amplifies underrepresented voices
- Explains complex issues clearly
- Drives change within communities
Then this award was created for you.
📢 If you know a journalist who tells Africa’s stories with courage and clarity—share this opportunity with them.
Your story deserves a global stage.
APPLY HERE