Young African Space Professionals Award

The Young African Space Professionals Award, jointly led by Space in Africa and the African Space Agency (AfSA), is a curated, merit-based recognition programme. It provides funding for ten outstanding young Africans (aged 35 and below) to participate in the NewSpace Africa Conference 2026 in Libreville, Gabon, from 20th to 23rd April 2026. This leadership-visibility pipeline spotlights work aligned with space governance, policy, sustainability, industrialisation, and socio-economic impact.

Benefits

The African Space Agency will cover end-to-end costs, including:

• Registration: Access to all sessions and networking events.

• Logistics and accommodation: Flight tickets, accommodation in Libreville, and local transport.

• Visibility: Featured in the conference programme, reports, and AfSA communication platforms.

• Networking and tourism: Registration for VIP events, mixers, and tourism activities.

• Daily subsistence allowance: DSAs to cover feeding and incidental expenses.

Eligibility

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• African: Be an African national with a substantive contribution to the space ecosystem.

• Demonstrated Impact: Evidence of outcomes, leadership, or innovation in the space sector.

• Professional Standing: Students at a recognised university or professionals employed in a space-related field.

• Active Contribution: Currently engaged in space-related work or policy.

• Age: 35 and below as of the conference start date.

Application Process

Submissions must be made via the official application form by 28th February 2026 at 11:59 pm WAT. Required information includes:

• Name, email, country of residence, and nationality.

• International passport information (PDF, JPG, or PNG).

• Detailed resume.

• 1,000-word motivation letter.

• Two reference letters.

Motivation Letter

The 2-page motivation must cover:

1. Contributions to date: Academic, professional, or technical overview.
2. Motivation for the award: Alignment with professional goals.
3. Objectives of participation: What you hope to learn or achieve.
4. Relevance of NSAC 2026: Impact on research and networking.
5. Expected career impact: Long-term influence within the African space ecosystem.

Reference Letters

Referees (professors or employers) must use the official template to assess the applicant’s strengths and the benefits of their participation in NSAC 2026. Letters must be signed and uploaded in PDF format.

Timeline

• Opens: 30th January, 2026

• Deadline: 28th February, 2026

• Winners Announcement: 9th March, 2026

For enquiries, contact info@spaceinafrica.com.

Before you begin the application form, please download the official reference letter template here.

  Download Reference Letter Template