The AYTIC program targets young professionals 35 years of age and younger, and actively encourages participation from postgraduate students. This initiative offers a significant opportunity for young African innovators, entrepreneurs, and postgraduate students to contribute innovative solutions shaping the future of the continent's tourism sector. AYTIC provides a unique Pan-African platform for young people to showcase their creative concepts, technological innovations, and social entrepreneurial ventures, attracting potential investors and venture capital.
Innovation within the travel and tourism sector can fundamentally change how businesses operate and improve the experiences of customers and travelers. Consequently, AYTIC aims to empower African youth by offering business partnerships, market access, networking opportunities, mentorship, and funding solutions from a global network that includes UN Tourism, the private sector, fintech, social entrepreneurs, and ATP networks.
Youth engaged in tourism-related innovative projects are encouraged to submit their proposals for evaluation. Selected innovators will gain access to industry leaders, potential partners for professional growth, complimentary enrollment in short courses offered by UN Tourism, membership in the Africa Youth in Tourism Mentors and Innovators Network, and global visibility.
The winner of the Challenge will receive prizes valued at US$1,000, while the first and second runners-up will each be awarded prizes worth US$500. Additionally, previous finalists and those from the 2025 AYTIC will gain entry into the Africa Tourism Innovation Hub (ATIH), established in collaboration with Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Namibia University of Science and Technology. The inaugural cohort is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025.
Joram Mwinamo, co-host and CEO of SNDBX Kenya, characterized the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge as a pivotal opportunity for young innovators throughout the continent to influence the future of Africa’s tourism industry. “This platform allows for connections with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, empowering the next generation of African change-makers to foster innovation, generate employment, and advocate for cultural and environmental sustainability. Seize the opportunity to impact Africa’s tourism sector – participate and contribute to the transformation!” he emphasized.
The top five finalists will be required to deliver a five-minute demonstration to the judges at the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, where the winner and runners-up will be determined. The finalists of the Innovation Challenge will be revealed at the annual Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards, with the location to be announced later.
In light of this, all innovators across Africa are encouraged to participate in the challenge. The submission deadline is set for February 28, 2025.