The South African BRICS Youth Association invites young people, youth leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, academics, activists, community organisers and development advocates to participate in the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026, an online international youth engagement platform designed to strengthen partnerships between African countries and BRICS nations. Under the theme “Africa in BRICS: Youth Partnerships for an Inclusive, Innovative and Sustainable Future,” the forum will provide an opportunity for young people to exchange ideas, share experiences, explore economic and educational opportunities, and discuss practical approaches to sustainable development, technological innovation and international cooperation.

Scheduled for 28 November 2026, the forum aims to highlight the contributions of young people to Africa’s development and its growing relationships with BRICS countries. Through discussions on entrepreneurship, trade, digital transformation, education, youth diplomacy and sustainable development, participants will have an opportunity to engage with issues affecting young people across the Global South and explore ways to strengthen youth participation in international cooperation.

Young people interested in contributing to discussions on economic empowerment, innovation, education, leadership and sustainable development are encouraged to review the participation requirements and submit their registration before the official deadline of 25 October 2026.

Overview of the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026

The Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026 is intended to bring together young people from Africa and BRICS-associated countries to discuss shared priorities, identify areas for collaboration and explore opportunities for youth-led development. The initiative places young people at the centre of conversations about economic growth, technological advancement, education, diplomacy and sustainable development.

The forum recognises that young people are important contributors to economic transformation and social progress. Across Africa and other emerging economies, youth-led businesses, digital enterprises, research initiatives, community projects and advocacy movements are helping to shape new approaches to development. However, young people may still face challenges involving access to finance, employment, education, technology, international markets and decision-making platforms.

By creating space for dialogue around these issues, the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum seeks to encourage stronger connections among young entrepreneurs, students, researchers, youth organisations, community leaders and other development stakeholders.

The forum’s central theme, “Africa in BRICS: Youth Partnerships for an Inclusive, Innovative and Sustainable Future,” reflects the importance of building partnerships that allow young people to contribute to economic opportunities, technological progress and international cooperation.

The discussions are expected to explore how young people can participate more meaningfully in regional and international initiatives, develop practical solutions to shared challenges, and strengthen cooperation between African communities and BRICS countries.

Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026: Key Details

Applicants should take note of the following information before completing the registration form.

• Event: Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026
• Organiser: South African BRICS Youth Association
• Theme: Africa in BRICS: Youth Partnerships for an Inclusive, Innovative and Sustainable Future
• Date: 28 November 2026
• Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CAT (GMT+2)
• Format: Online
• Registration deadline: 25 October 2026
• Target participants: Youth, inspirational leaders, youth community leaders, youth activists, entrepreneurs, change agents, researchers and academics
• Registration method: Online delegation registration form

The programme is scheduled to run for three hours. Prospective participants should therefore ensure that they can attend the full duration of the online forum before confirming their availability in the registration form.

Applicants should also account for the time difference between South African time and their local time zones. For example, participants in Ghana, which operates on GMT, should note that 12:00 p.m. CAT corresponds to 10:00 a.m. in Ghana, while the forum’s scheduled closing time of 3:00 p.m. CAT corresponds to 1:00 p.m. in Ghana.

Who Should Apply for the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026?

The registration announcement specifically welcomes individuals whose interests, professional backgrounds or community activities relate to youth development, economic empowerment, innovation, research, education, diplomacy and sustainable development.

The following categories of applicants may find the forum particularly relevant.

1. Young Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

Young entrepreneurs, founders of start-ups, small-business owners and aspiring business leaders may benefit from discussions about trade, investment, market access, digital business and economic cooperation.

The entrepreneurship theme is particularly relevant to individuals seeking to understand how their businesses could connect with wider African markets and emerging opportunities associated with BRICS economies.

2. Youth Leaders and Community Organisers

Youth leaders, community organisers and representatives of youth groups can contribute experiences from their work with young people and local communities. Their participation may help bring attention to practical challenges involving employment, education, participation, inclusion and access to opportunities.

3. Youth Activists and Change Agents

Young people working on social development, environmental protection, public participation, equality, community empowerment and related causes may find the forum relevant to their interests.

The programme’s emphasis on sustainable development and people-to-people cooperation provides a setting for discussing how youth-led initiatives can support positive social change.

4. Students, Researchers and Academics

Students, researchers, academics and individuals interested in international collaboration are among the audiences identified in the registration announcement.

Those working in economics, business, technology, education, public policy, international relations, sustainability and related fields may be able to contribute relevant perspectives to the discussions.

5. Young Professionals and Emerging Leaders

Young professionals and aspiring leaders interested in international cooperation, digital transformation, economic development or youth participation in decision-making may also find the event useful.

The forum provides an opportunity to engage with questions about the future of work, international partnerships and the role of young people in shaping development priorities.

Important: The announcement identifies the intended participant groups but does not specify a minimum or maximum age, academic qualification, application fee, number of available places or guaranteed selection criteria. Applicants should consult the official registration form or contact the organisers if they need clarification on these matters.

Main Discussion Topics at the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026

The forum will focus on three major discussion areas. Applicants are asked to select their preferred topic and a second-choice topic in the registration form.

Each discussion area addresses a different dimension of youth development and international cooperation.

1. Youth Entrepreneurship, Trade and Economic Opportunities

The first discussion topic will explore how young people can benefit from and contribute to expanding economic relationships between African countries and BRICS nations.

Economic cooperation can create opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and small enterprises. However, young entrepreneurs need access to relevant information, financing, markets, business networks and technology to participate effectively in these opportunities.

This discussion will examine how youth-led businesses can become more competitive and contribute to economic development across Africa and the wider Global South.

Key areas of discussion

Youth entrepreneurship and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

Young entrepreneurs and SMEs play an important role in employment creation, innovation and local economic development. Discussions may examine the challenges faced by young business owners and explore how partnerships can help them build sustainable enterprises.

Potential areas of interest include business development, entrepreneurship support, access to markets, partnerships and strategies for growing youth-led enterprises.

Market access and international trade

Access to customers beyond local markets can help businesses expand their operations and increase their commercial opportunities.

Participants may discuss the barriers that young entrepreneurs encounter when attempting to enter regional and international markets, as well as how cooperation between African countries and BRICS economies could help businesses establish stronger trade relationships.

Digital business and entrepreneurship

Digital platforms have changed how businesses promote products, communicate with customers, manage operations and access markets.

The forum may explore how young entrepreneurs can use digital tools, online marketplaces and other technologies to strengthen their businesses and participate in emerging commercial opportunities.

Access to finance and investment opportunities

Access to capital remains an important consideration for many young entrepreneurs, particularly those seeking to launch new businesses or expand existing operations.

The discussion may examine financing challenges, investment opportunities and the importance of building connections between young entrepreneurs and relevant business-support networks.

Africa–BRICS trade and Global South economic cooperation

The forum will also consider how economic relationships between Africa and BRICS countries can support entrepreneurship and trade.

Participants may discuss the role of young business leaders in strengthening economic cooperation, developing commercial partnerships and identifying opportunities across emerging markets.

Youth participation in African and BRICS value chains

Value chains connect the different stages involved in producing and delivering goods and services. Greater participation in these networks can create opportunities for youth-led enterprises.

The session will highlight the importance of helping young entrepreneurs understand where their businesses can contribute to emerging African and BRICS value chains.

Why this topic matters to young people

This discussion is particularly relevant to young people who want to start a business, expand an existing enterprise, explore international markets or understand how economic cooperation can create opportunities for youth-led innovation.

It may also be useful to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to learn more about the relationship between business development, investment, trade and sustainable economic growth.

Applicants selecting this topic should consider describing their entrepreneurial activities, business ideas, professional experience or interest in economic empowerment in the registration form.

2. Innovation, Digital Transformation, Education and the Future of Work

The second discussion topic will focus on the changing technological environment and the skills young people need to participate effectively in the future economy.

Technological developments are transforming industries, education systems, research, financial services and employment. Artificial intelligence, digital platforms and emerging technologies are creating new possibilities while also changing the skills required in many professional fields.

For African youth, these developments present both opportunities and challenges. Access to digital skills, quality education, research opportunities and technological infrastructure can influence how effectively young people participate in the digital economy.

The forum will explore how stronger cooperation between African and BRICS institutions can support access to knowledge, skills, technology and innovation.

Key areas of discussion

Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing business operations, research, education and professional services.

Participants may discuss the potential of AI to support productivity, innovation and problem-solving, as well as the importance of developing the skills needed to use these technologies responsibly and effectively.

The conversation may also consider how young Africans can participate in the development and application of emerging technologies rather than simply consume digital products and services.

Digital transformation and innovation ecosystems

Digital transformation involves using technology to improve how organisations, institutions and businesses operate.

The forum may explore how innovation hubs, technology communities, start-ups and other institutions can help young people develop ideas, test solutions and build technology-driven enterprises.

Financial technology (FinTech)

Financial technology can improve the delivery of financial services and create opportunities for digital entrepreneurship.

Potential discussion areas include digital payments, financial inclusion, technology-enabled business services and the role of innovation in expanding access to financial tools.

Digital skills and future-of-work competencies

The changing employment environment makes digital literacy, critical thinking, communication, adaptability and problem-solving increasingly important.

Participants may discuss how young people can acquire relevant skills, prepare for changing labour-market requirements and identify pathways into technology-related and other emerging careers.

Education, scholarships and academic exchanges

International academic cooperation can help students and researchers access new learning opportunities, research networks and educational experiences.

The forum will consider scholarships, academic exchanges and collaboration between educational institutions as possible areas for strengthening educational relationships between Africa and BRICS countries.

The announcement does not identify specific scholarships or guarantee that funding opportunities will be offered through the forum.

Research collaboration and institutional partnerships

Cooperation among universities, research institutions, innovation hubs and youth organisations can help expand knowledge-sharing and support the development of practical solutions to shared challenges.

Participants may explore how these partnerships can improve access to research opportunities, technological knowledge and collaborative projects.

Why this topic matters to young people

This theme is particularly relevant to students, graduates, technology enthusiasts, aspiring AI professionals, digital entrepreneurs, researchers and individuals interested in education and career development.

It also offers a useful discussion area for young people seeking to understand how technological change may affect employment, entrepreneurship and access to international learning opportunities.

Applicants interested in this theme may wish to highlight their digital skills, academic background, research interests, technology projects or commitment to lifelong learning.

3. Youth Diplomacy, Sustainable Development and People-to-People Cooperation

The third discussion topic will examine the role of young people in strengthening international relationships and responding to shared development challenges.

International cooperation is not limited to governments and formal diplomatic institutions. Youth organisations, volunteers, civil society groups, community initiatives and cultural networks can also contribute to building relationships across countries and communities.

This theme recognises that young people can help strengthen mutual understanding, promote sustainable development and contribute to collaborative responses to social, environmental and economic challenges.

Key areas of discussion

Youth diplomacy and international cooperation

Youth diplomacy involves young people participating in international dialogue, building relationships across borders and contributing perspectives on issues that affect their communities and countries.

The forum may examine how youth leaders can engage more meaningfully with international platforms and support cooperation between African countries and BRICS nations.

Climate action and environmental sustainability

Climate change and environmental challenges affect livelihoods, economic development and the well-being of communities.

Participants may discuss youth-led environmental initiatives, climate action, sustainability advocacy and ways young people can contribute to environmentally responsible development.

Sustainable development

Sustainable development involves balancing economic progress, social inclusion and environmental responsibility.

The discussion may explore how young people can contribute to development initiatives that create opportunities while addressing community needs and long-term environmental concerns.

Volunteering and civic participation

Volunteering can provide opportunities for young people to contribute to communities, develop practical skills and work with individuals from different backgrounds.

The forum may consider how volunteer programmes and youth-led initiatives can support community development and strengthen international relationships.

Cultural exchange and mutual understanding

Cultural exchange can help young people learn about different societies, share experiences and build lasting relationships across national boundaries.

The session may examine how cultural engagement and people-to-people partnerships can contribute to mutual understanding between Africa and BRICS countries.

Civil society cooperation and youth leadership

Civil society organisations and youth groups can play important roles in community development, public engagement and advocacy.

Participants may discuss how organisations can collaborate across countries, strengthen youth leadership and create more meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in development initiatives.

Youth participation in international platforms

Young people bring valuable perspectives to conversations about employment, education, technology, climate action and social development.

The forum will explore the importance of ensuring that youth perspectives are represented in international cooperation and that young people have opportunities to contribute ideas and solutions.

Why this topic matters to young people

This discussion area is especially relevant to youth advocates, volunteers, community leaders, sustainability campaigners, civil society representatives, aspiring diplomats and individuals interested in international development.

Applicants may wish to describe their community involvement, volunteering experience, advocacy work, leadership responsibilities or commitment to sustainable development.

How to Choose Your Preferred Discussion Topic

The registration form requires applicants to select a first-choice topic and a second-choice topic in case they are not selected for their preferred session.

Choosing a topic that aligns with your background, experience and interests can help you explain why you would like to participate and what you hope to contribute.

Consider the following guidance when making your selection:

• Choose Youth Entrepreneurship, Trade and Economic Opportunities if your interests involve business development, entrepreneurship, SMEs, investment, trade, digital business or economic empowerment.
• Choose Innovation, Digital Transformation, Education and the Future of Work if your interests involve AI, digital skills, technology, research, scholarships, academic collaboration or career development.
• Choose Youth Diplomacy, Sustainable Development and People-to-People Cooperation if your interests involve youth leadership, volunteering, climate action, community development, international relations or cultural exchange.

Your second choice should ideally reflect another topic in which you have a genuine interest or relevant experience.

For example, an applicant with a background in youth advocacy and digital communications might choose innovation and digital transformation as a first preference and youth diplomacy and sustainable development as a second preference, provided both choices reflect their actual interests.

How to Complete the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026 Registration Form

Interested applicants are required to complete the online delegation registration form and provide the requested personal, professional and participation information.

The form contains several required fields. Applicants should prepare accurate information before beginning the registration process.

1. Name and surname

Enter your full name as requested. Ensure that your spelling is correct and consistent with the identification or professional records you normally use.

2. Email address

Provide an active email address that you can access regularly. Organisers may use this address to communicate about registration or selection, although the announcement does not specify the exact notification process.

Check your inbox and spam folder regularly after submitting your application.

3. Contact number with country code

Enter a valid telephone number, including your international country code.

For applicants in Ghana, the country code is +233. Use the appropriate international code for your country of residence or telephone number.

4. Gender

Select the applicable option provided in the form. The supplied announcement does not reproduce the available gender choices, so applicants should follow the options displayed in the live registration form.

5. Citizenship

Select your citizenship from the list provided.

The form includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, several African countries and other countries listed in the registration options, including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. An “Other” option is also provided for applicants whose citizenship does not appear in the list.

If you select “Other,” complete the additional field asking you to specify your citizenship.

Applicants should select their actual citizenship rather than assuming that the form’s country list represents a confirmed eligibility restriction.

6. Occupation

Enter your current occupation or principal professional or academic activity.

Depending on your circumstances, this could be student, entrepreneur, researcher, academic, youth activist, community leader, volunteer, social media manager or another accurate description.

If you are currently volunteering or working with a youth organisation, you may include that role where it accurately describes your current activity.

7. Affiliated organisation

Provide the name of the organisation, institution, business, community group or initiative with which you are affiliated.

If you represent a youth organisation, non-governmental organisation, university, business or community initiative, enter its correct name.

If you are independent or not formally affiliated with an organisation, consult the form owner for guidance on how to complete this required field rather than entering misleading information.

8. First-choice discussion topic

Select the discussion topic you would most like to participate in.

Your choice should reflect the area where you can make a meaningful contribution or gain relevant knowledge.

9. Second-choice discussion topic

Choose your alternative topic in case you are not selected for your first preference.

This gives the organisers another indication of your interests and potential suitability for participation across the forum’s discussion areas.

10. Background and experience in your selected topic

This is an important written-response section of the application.

Applicants must describe their background and experience in one of the discussion topics they are interested in. A strong response should explain their relevant activities, interests, achievements, knowledge or community contributions.

You may wish to cover the following points:

• Your educational or professional background.
• Relevant employment, volunteering, research, business or leadership experience.
• Projects or initiatives you have participated in.
• Your interest in the selected discussion topic.
• Challenges you have observed in your community or professional field.
• Ideas, perspectives or experiences you could contribute to the discussion.
• What you hope to learn or achieve through participating in the forum.

Applicants should provide genuine information and avoid exaggerating their experience. Relevant volunteering, community involvement, academic projects and independent initiatives can be useful to describe when they directly relate to the selected theme.

11. Confirmation of online attendance

The form asks whether you confirm that you will attend the forum online.

Select the response that accurately reflects your availability and willingness to participate virtually.

Because the event is scheduled to take place online, applicants should ensure they have access to a suitable internet connection and a device that allows them to participate.

12. Confirmation of full-duration attendance

Applicants must indicate whether they can attend the full duration of the forum.

The published programme is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CAT on 28 November 2026.

Before confirming, consider any work, study, family or other commitments that could prevent you from attending the entire session.

13. Consent for the use of personal information

The form asks applicants to consent to the organisers using their information for the selection process. It also states that applicants’ information will not be disclosed to third parties.

Read this declaration carefully and select the response that reflects your consent.

Applicants should provide only the information requested and should never submit passwords or unrelated sensitive account credentials through a registration form.

How to Write a Strong Background and Experience Statement

The background and experience question gives applicants an opportunity to explain why they are interested in a discussion topic and what perspectives they could bring to the forum.

A useful response should be specific, truthful and connected to the selected theme. Applicants do not necessarily need extensive international experience to explain a genuine interest in youth development or a relevant contribution.

For example, applicants may discuss:

• A youth-led project they have supported.
• Experience running or developing a small business.
• Research or academic work connected to the selected topic.
• Digital skills or technology projects.
• Community volunteering and social development activities.
• Environmental advocacy or youth leadership.
• Work involving education, entrepreneurship or youth empowerment.

The following examples illustrate how applicants might structure their statements. They should be adapted to reflect the applicant’s actual background and experience rather than copied as claims that may not be true.

Example for Youth Entrepreneurship, Trade and Economic Opportunities

“My interest in youth entrepreneurship and economic development comes from my commitment to understanding how young people can create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to economic growth in their communities. I am particularly interested in the opportunities available to youth-led businesses through digital platforms, access to markets, entrepreneurship development and international economic cooperation. I would welcome the opportunity to exchange ideas on the challenges facing young entrepreneurs and explore practical ways to strengthen youth participation in trade, innovation and emerging business opportunities across Africa and BRICS countries.”

Example for Innovation, Digital Transformation, Education and the Future of Work

“I am interested in the role of digital transformation, innovation and education in expanding opportunities for young people. I recognise the growing importance of digital skills, emerging technologies and lifelong learning in preparing young people for changing employment environments. I am particularly interested in how collaboration between African and BRICS institutions can improve access to knowledge, research, technology and educational opportunities. Through this forum, I hope to exchange ideas on how young people can develop relevant skills and contribute to inclusive digital and economic development.”

Example for Youth Diplomacy, Sustainable Development and People-to-People Cooperation

“My interest in youth diplomacy and sustainable development stems from the importance of youth participation in addressing community challenges and strengthening cooperation across borders. I believe young people can contribute meaningfully through volunteering, community engagement, advocacy, leadership and collaborative development initiatives. I am interested in exploring how youth organisations and international partnerships can promote mutual understanding, environmental sustainability and inclusive development. I would value the opportunity to share perspectives and learn how young people can participate more effectively in international cooperation between Africa and BRICS countries.”

These examples provide general structures rather than guaranteed successful application responses. Applicants should personalise their statements with real examples, relevant skills and experiences that demonstrate their connection to the selected topic.

What Participants Should Prepare Before the Online Forum

Although the announcement does not provide a detailed agenda, speaker list, technical instructions or preparation materials, prospective participants can take several practical steps before the scheduled event.

Research the selected topic. Familiarise yourself with the issues you want to discuss and consider how they affect young people in your country or community.

Prepare relevant examples. Think about a project, challenge, achievement or observation that could help make your contribution specific and practical.

Develop questions and ideas. Consider what you would like to learn from other participants and what recommendations you could share.

Check your internet access. Since the forum is online, ensure that your device and internet connection are suitable for attending the session.

Confirm your availability. Make arrangements to attend the full three-hour programme on 28 November 2026.

Monitor your email. Use the email address provided in your application and check for any further information from the organisers.

These are general preparation recommendations, not additional official requirements stated in the registration announcement.

Why the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026 May Be Relevant to African Youth

The forum’s three themes address several areas that influence the opportunities available to young people across Africa.

First, entrepreneurship and trade discussions can encourage young people to think about business development beyond their immediate communities and consider how international economic cooperation may affect their opportunities.

Second, conversations about innovation and digital transformation can help highlight the importance of technological knowledge, education, research and relevant professional skills in a changing global economy.

Third, youth diplomacy and sustainable development discussions can draw attention to the role of young people in building relationships, contributing to community initiatives and participating in international dialogue.

The combination of these themes makes the forum relevant to individuals interested in both practical development challenges and broader international cooperation.

However, applicants should maintain realistic expectations. The announcement presents the forum as an online discussion and engagement opportunity. It does not confirm that participants will receive scholarships, employment, travel funding, business grants, certificates, financial support or guaranteed access to future programmes.

Anyone requiring clarification about these matters should contact the organisers through a verified official communication channel before relying on any additional claims.

Important Registration Deadline: 25 October 2026

The stated deadline for registration is 25 October 2026.

As the forum is scheduled for 28 November 2026, interested applicants should complete the form before the registration deadline rather than waiting until the event date approaches.

Before submitting your application, review the following checklist:

• Confirm that your name and contact information are correct.
• Ensure that your citizenship and occupation details are accurate.
• Enter your affiliated organisation correctly.
• Select both your first-choice and second-choice discussion topics.
• Prepare a relevant and truthful background statement.
• Confirm your ability to attend the online forum.
• Confirm whether you can attend the full three-hour session.
• Review the personal-information consent declaration.
• Submit the completed form before 25 October 2026.
• Keep an eye on your email for any communication from the organisers.

Submitting the form does not, by itself, establish that an applicant has been selected. The announcement does not specify the selection timeline, notification date or number of participants to be admitted.

How to Register for the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026

Interested applicants should use the official registration form provided by the South African BRICS Youth Association.

Registration deadline: 25 October 2026

Event date: 28 November 2026

Event format: Online

Registration form: Use the original Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026 Delegation Form shared by the organisers.

Applicants should verify that they are using the intended form and that any further instructions come from a reliable source associated with the organisers. The registration announcement provided here does not include a verifiable direct URL for the form or an official contact website, so a specific registration link cannot be independently confirmed from the supplied information.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026

1. What is the Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026?

It is an online youth engagement forum organised by the South African BRICS Youth Association. It will focus on partnerships between Africa and BRICS countries, with discussions covering entrepreneurship, innovation, education, diplomacy and sustainable development.

2. What is the theme of the forum?

The official theme is “Africa in BRICS: Youth Partnerships for an Inclusive, Innovative and Sustainable Future.”

3. When will the forum take place?

The forum is scheduled for 28 November 2026.

4. What time will the forum begin?

The published time is 12:00 p.m. CAT (GMT+2), with the programme scheduled to end at 3:00 p.m. CAT.

5. Is the forum online or in person?

The announcement specifies an online format. It does not list a physical venue.

6. What is the registration deadline?

The registration deadline is 25 October 2026.

7. Who can apply?

The announcement invites youth, inspirational leaders, youth community leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, change agents, researchers and academics. It does not specify a formal age range or a complete set of eligibility restrictions.

8. What topics can applicants choose from?

Applicants can choose from three topics:

1. Youth Entrepreneurship, Trade and Economic Opportunities.
2. Innovation, Digital Transformation, Education and the Future of Work.
3. Youth Diplomacy, Sustainable Development and People-to-People Cooperation.

Applicants must also select a second-choice topic.

9. Do applicants need previous international experience?

The announcement does not state that previous international experience is compulsory. Applicants should describe genuine experiences and interests that relate to their chosen discussion topic.

10. Is the forum offering scholarships or travel funding?

The announcement does not confirm scholarships, travel funding, grants or other financial benefits. It does mention scholarships and academic exchanges as possible discussion areas under innovation, education and the future of work.

11. Is participation guaranteed after registration?

No guarantee is stated in the announcement. The form collects information for a selection process, meaning registration should not be interpreted as confirmation of acceptance.

12. Can applicants from Ghana participate?

Ghana appears in the citizenship options provided in the registration form. However, the announcement does not publish a comprehensive eligibility policy, so applicants should check the organisers’ official instructions for any additional conditions.

13. What should applicants write in the background and experience section?

Applicants should describe their education, work, volunteering, research, business activities, leadership experience or other relevant involvement connected to their selected discussion topic. The statement should be accurate, specific and focused on what they could contribute to the discussion.

Conclusion

The Africa–BRICS Youth Forum 2026 offers a platform for young people, entrepreneurs, youth leaders, researchers, academics, activists and community organisers to engage with important questions about Africa’s relationships with BRICS countries and the wider Global South. Guided by the theme “Africa in BRICS: Youth Partnerships for an Inclusive, Innovative and Sustainable Future,” the forum will focus on three key areas: youth entrepreneurship and trade; innovation, digital transformation and education; and youth diplomacy, sustainable development and people-to-people cooperation.

For young people interested in business opportunities, technological progress, educational collaboration, international relations or community development, the event represents an opportunity to explore shared challenges and exchange perspectives with other participants.

Prospective applicants should carefully select their preferred discussion topics, prepare a truthful and relevant background statement, review all required fields and confirm that they can participate online for the full duration of the programme.

The registration deadline is 25 October 2026, and the forum is scheduled for 28 November 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. CAT (GMT+2).

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