What Misk 20 Under 30 Represents for Africa’s Next Generation of Innovators

Africa’s youth are leading the world’s most exciting shifts — from climate solutions and fintech to creative industries and public-policy innovation. The Misk Global Forum’s “Misk 20 Under 30” initiative is one of the few global platforms designed specifically to spotlight youth-led initiatives like these and connect them to mentors, media visibility, and a long-term network.

What the program is

Misk 20 Under 30 highlights 20 youth-led initiatives from around the world that are “redefining what’s possible” across technology and innovation, sustainability leadership, culture and the arts, health and sports, social impact, and global citizenship. Selected initiatives are celebrated at the Misk Global Forum (MGF) — a major youth gathering taking place November 19–20, 2025 in Riyadh’s Misk City.

Why it matters for African builders

Africa’s founders, creators, and community organizers often scale impact with limited resources and vast demand. Misk 20 Under 30 is built to amplify those stories, connect leaders across regions, and open doors to collaboration with partners and institutions watching MGF each year. The initiative explicitly promises leadership access, visibility and media, development opportunities, collaboration with partners, and alumni networking — the exact levers African innovators need to accelerate across borders.

Who can apply (key criteria)

• Age: 14 up to (but not including) 30 years old by December 31, 2025

• Nationality: Open to all nationalities

• Fields of impact: Entrepreneurship, sustainability, science and technology, media, public policy, activism, and the creative industries

• Track record: Demonstrated, measurable positive impact; purpose-driven leadership with potential to scale sustainably

• Global exposure: Alumni of reputable youth programs or innovation platforms are encouraged
  These criteria are published directly by Misk Global Forum.

How selection works

Applications move through a five-step process: eligibility check → initiative evaluation → interviews → final evaluation → final announcement. The final 20 are then recognized as the Misk 20 Under 30 cohort at the Forum.

About the Misk Global Forum

Launched in 2016, MGF is described as the region’s largest youth forum — a platform convening global leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to unlock youth potential and catalyze positive change. The 2025 edition is scheduled for Nov 19–20, 2025 in Riyadh.

Apply and represent Africa

If you’re under 30 and leading an initiative with measurable impact — in tech, climate, health, policy, media, or the creative economy — apply via the official Misk 20 Under 30 page. Encourage peers across the continent to do the same so Africa’s solutions are visible on a global stage. Misk Global Forum 2025

Apply now and share with your network: the more African initiatives in the pipeline, the stronger the continent’s voice at MGF 2025.