Applications are now open for the 2026 KESSA Young Panafrican Storytellers Program. KESSA supports the new generation of African storytellers — those who write, film, create, think, and transform the continent’s narratives. A joint initiative of the UM6P Story School and the French-African Foundation, KESSA aims to support and elevate the talents who are shaping a modern, bold, and inspiring African narrative.
The word KESSA, meaning “story” in Arabic and in several African dialects, embodies this ambition: to amplify stories that resonate, connect, and transform.
School supplies
During an immersive week at the UM6P Story School campus, the 30 selected laureates will benefit from an environment where creativity, innovation, and storytelling come together.
Selection Criteria
Candidates must :
- Be between 25 and 40 years old
- Have at least 5 years of experience in their field
- Demonstrate significant creative practice or narrative work
- Possess an active and engaged audience connected to Africa
- Contribute to a positive, structured, and transformative African narrative
- Show strong potential for impact
Requirements
KESSA is for those who are shaping and advancing the African narrative:
Creators
- Artists, filmmakers, writers, photographers, designers, performers.
Idea Makers
- Researchers, scientists, intellectuals, innovators.
Media Voices
- Journalists, hosts, podcasters, producers.
Storytellers
- Content creators, influencers, communication experts.
Impact Builders
- Cultural entrepreneurs, social actors, community leaders.
Benefits
Morocco – Immersive Week
From March 23 to 28, 2026
Six days of creative and collaborative experiences :
Masterclasses
- Storytelling, writing, visual narration, journalism, digital culture, scientific storytelling, narrative leadership.
Hands-on Workshops
- Audiovisual production, 360° storytelling, creative identity, collaborative production.
Inspiring Encounters
- Artists, journalists, cultural entrepreneurs, researchers, African and international creators.
Co-creation
- Production of an original work (video, podcast, text, or artistic creation).
Visibility
- Pan-African distribution of productions and showcasing of talent.
– High-level masterclasses
– Hands-on creative labs
– Meetings with leading African and global creators
– A vibrant continental network
– A final creative showcase
More than a programme — a community
After the immersive week, participants become part of the KESSA Alumni Network: a growing community of creators, visionaries, and narrative changemakers with access to opportunities, collaborations, and long-term support.
Application Timeline
- Applications open: December 10, 2025
- Applications close: January 10, 2026
- Announcement of the 30 laureates: February 23, 2026
For More Information:
