ACOTYA 2026: Help a child say “I CAN”
The 8th Annual AfrICAN Children of the Year Awards celebrates young people making a difference across Africa. Here is how to put a child or group forward.
A child who helps others learn, creates something new or brings people together deserves to have their story heard. The AfrICAN Children of the Year Awards (ACOTYA) gives those stories a platform.
Presented by the Stacey Fru Foundation and partners, the eighth annual awards will take place on 20 November 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Winners, first runners-up and second runners-up will be announced at the ceremony.
Growing up, growing minds
ACOTYA is built around a simple belief: children too CAN. The awards celebrate children who represent their peers, demonstrate creativity, motivate others and contribute to their communities. Recognition can help young people see the value of their efforts and encourage them to keep going.
Who can be nominated?
Children aged 7–13 from anywhere in Africa may enter, individually or as a group. The Foundation also has a Special Mention category for children under seven or aged 14.
Achievements may involve learning, the arts, sport, science, leadership, community work or another award category. A nomination should explain what the child has done, why it matters and what evidence supports the story.
Take the next step
Nominations close on 31 October 2026. Use the nomination portal to prepare an entry, or contact info@staceyfrufoundation.org.za or WhatsApp +27 84 814 7292. Every complete entry needs the child’s name and age, reasons for nomination, signed guardian consent and supporting evidence.
Know a child whose actions inspire others? Help their story reach the Foundation—and help them say “I CAN”.
Presented by the Stacey Fru Foundation and partners, the eighth annual awards will take place on 20 November 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Winners, first runners-up and second runners-up will be announced at the ceremony.
Growing up, growing minds
ACOTYA is built around a simple belief: children too CAN. The awards celebrate children who represent their peers, demonstrate creativity, motivate others and contribute to their communities. Recognition can help young people see the value of their efforts and encourage them to keep going.
Who can be nominated?
Children aged 7–13 from anywhere in Africa may enter, individually or as a group. The Foundation also has a Special Mention category for children under seven or aged 14.
Achievements may involve learning, the arts, sport, science, leadership, community work or another award category. A nomination should explain what the child has done, why it matters and what evidence supports the story.
Take the next step
Nominations close on 31 October 2026. Use the nomination portal to prepare an entry, or contact info@staceyfrufoundation.org.za or WhatsApp +27 84 814 7292. Every complete entry needs the child’s name and age, reasons for nomination, signed guardian consent and supporting evidence.
Know a child whose actions inspire others? Help their story reach the Foundation—and help them say “I CAN”.