Uweledi, Super App, Na Malkia — The Future Has Spoken

This year, AACOSE Youth Innovation Challenge successfully launched its inaugural edition as a dynamic initiative to foster innovation among young people, while celebrating their vital contributions toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. As part of the Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship (AACOSE), this annual challenge highlights the critical role of youth in developing innovative and sustainable solutions to pressing social issues.

The 2025 theme, “African Youth: Innovating for Inclusive and Sustainable Social Impact,” set the tone for a competition that encouraged the next generation of changemakers to envision and build a better future for Africa. The challenge provided a platform for young innovators to showcase their creative solutions, aimed at addressing societal challenges with lasting impact.

We are excited to build on the momentum of this inaugural challenge and look forward to an even more impactful second edition, as we continue to empower Africa’s youth to lead transformative change across the continent.

#2025winners

Winners: Uweledi Arts

Uweledi Arts has demonstrated a strong command of the problem space and delivered an innovative, socially responsive solution with measurable impact potential. Their concept is rooted in creativity and purpose, offering practical responses to real-world challenges faced by underserved communities.

While further refinement is needed in market strategy, cost structure, and MVP development, the team has demonstrated early traction, operational feasibility, and a scalable model. Their multidisciplinary approach, social consciousness, and forward- thinking design make them a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable innovation.

#firstrunnerup

First Runner Up: Super App Africa

This team introduced a bold and scalable digital solution designed to serve diverse user segments with agility and relevance. Their concept demonstrates a strong grasp of real societal challenges and a commitment to delivering innovation with measurable impact. Although areas such as solution clarity, monetization strategy, and cost modeling warrant further refinement, the team’s entrepreneurial mindset and early-stage development signal high potential for market readiness and future growth.

We commend Super App Africa for their ingenuity, vision, and determination and encourage them to continue evolving their solution toward transformative success

#secondrunnerup

Second Runner Up: Na Malkia

Na Malkia delivered a purpose-driven solution tailored to address pressing community challenges, with a strong focus on empowering underserved populations. Their concept blends creativity, social consciousness, and contextual relevance, demonstrating a deep understanding of the problem at hand. Although further development is required to refine their product, enhance team capacity, and solidify their market strategy, the foundation they have built indicates a high potential for future growth, sustainability, and impact.

Na Malkia stands out as a promising force in youth-led innovation. We commend their commitment and encourage their continued journey toward transformative change.

About the Youth Innovation Challenge

This year, AACOSE Youth Innovation Challenge successfully launched its inaugural edition as a dynamic initiative to foster innovation among young people, while celebrating their vital contributions toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. As part of the Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship (AACOSE), this annual challenge highlights the critical role of youth in developing innovative and sustainable solutions to pressing social issues.