New! MENA Region Special Recognition NGFP-Young Voices Awards 2025 Applications Are Now Open

For the 2025 NGFP -YV Awards, in partnership with the Dubai Future Foundation we’re especially excited to launch a dedicated MENA region special recognition category spotlighting emerging youth visionaries from across the Middle East and North Africa.

We know that young people are doing great things to create a better future - and we would like to hear about them. Individual, partner, or group project submissions are welcome from young people between the ages of 12-17 years old. We see this as the start of a conversation so we can learn, listen, and support futures thinking as a start into their foresight journey.

The qualities we are looking for are curiosity about the changing world and the people around them. An interest in translating future-focused ideas into action in service to their community. Young Voices applicants demonstrate a willingness to become ambassadors for the futures and for sustainability. 

To apply, applicants are asked to:

1. Write a short essay (maximum 400 words) on how a current project or an intended project will consider the well-being of others and the future of the planet. Submissions can be in the applicant's native language, but please include English translations.

2. Create and submit a short video (maximum 2m 30s) about what they would want to do with the Young Voices prize. The video is a pitch addressed to their community, persuading them that this project or idea is good or even necessary and giving them reasons for supporting or joining it. Video can be in your native language but please include English subtitles. Please create a new and original video and do not upload a news clipping or old video.

3. Indicate which of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) their idea would contribute to.

Apply Now

Eligibility: This Award is open to individuals who are residents of a MENA country and/or hold MENA nationality. All submissions will be reviewed by a regional panel of judges.

Important Note: This Award is administered in full compliance with U.S. and international sanctions regulations, including those issued by the United Nations. As such, applicants from certain countries may not be eligible to receive all components of the Award—such as services or monetary prizes—either directly or indirectly. We appreciate your understanding as we remain committed to these legal obligations while championing youth innovation across the region. 

MENA Region DEADLINE TO APPLY: August 31, 2025

Questions about how to apply or need help with your application? Join the upcoming Q&A sessions happening on June 23, 2025

RSVP Q&A