ICJ to award $5000 to journalists for African storytelling

The International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ), in collaboration with the ONE Campaign and the Elliott Family, is inviting entries for the 2023 Michael Elliott Award for Distinction in African Storytelling.

This accolade celebrates emerging African journalists who endeavor to amplify the voices of the continent and illuminate the vital transformations occurring there.

The impact of the winners’ contributions on the continent will be assessed alongside the quality of their articles. Submissions in all media types are encouraged, particularly those that display exceptional writing and analytical skills.

Along with a $5,000 monetary prize and a bespoke crystal accolade, the winners will also have the opportunity to spend up to two weeks at The Economist’s base in London or participate in a study tour of U.S. newsrooms.

The Eligibility Requirements: 

The competition is accessible to English-speaking journalists who report on news in Africa for print, broadcast, or digital outlets.

Applicants must possess a minimum of 10 years of journalism experience.

Every applicant is required to submit a copy of one published article that, through diligent reporting and captivating storytelling, best represents Africa.
The submission must include a copy of the published article or broadcast segment in English. Online, audio, video, visual, and mixed media submissions are all deemed as multimedia.

The article being submitted must have been published between December 1 and December 1 of 2022.

Media executives and distinguished members of an esteemed international jury from the US, UK, and Africa will determine the winners. Notify applicants will be made by the spring of 2023.

How to Submit: 

You can access the application for the 2023 cycle here. All applications must be received by January 31, 2023.

What the Award Represents: The Award was established in memory of Michael Elliott, an outstanding editor, philanthropist, and former ICFJ director who devoted his life to improving the human condition through the art of storytelling.

Prior to leading at ONE, he was a prominent editor at The Economist, Newsweek, and Time. His vision was to create a distinguished award for aspiring journalists committed to the progress of Africa.

About ICFJ: 

Since its establishment in 1984, the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), a non-profit, professional organization based in Washington, D.C., has worked to enhance journalism worldwide.

Since its inception, it has supported over 70,000 journalists from 180 nations through its practical training, workshops, seminars, fellowships, and international exchanges with reporters and media leaders globally.