Youth Conservation Tech Award 2026 

Overview

Are you using technology to solve real conservation challenges?

The Youth Conservation Tech Award 2026 recognises outstanding young people who are applying technology in real-world conservation operations. The award celebrates practical impact, responsible innovation, and youth leadership in conservation technology.

Whether you are working with drones, data, sensors, AI, or other tools, this award is about what you have actually done in the field, not just ideas or plans.

Deadline: 28th February, 2026

Award sponsor

The Youth Conservation Tech Award 2026 is proudly sponsored by Mara Elephant Project (MEP), supporting youth-led, field-tested conservation technology and practical impact on the ground.

Who the Award Is For

The award is open to individuals who:

  • Are 25 years old or under on 1 March 2026

  • Are students, early-career professionals, rangers, technologists, or community innovators

  • Have applied technology in real conservation work

  • Are working in Africa or comparable conservation contexts

You may apply yourself or be nominated by someone else.

What We Are Looking For

We are particularly interested in work that demonstrates:

  • Clear conservation impact

  • Practical, field-tested use of technology

  • Responsible and ethical technology deployment

  • Strong youth leadership and initiative

  • Learning that could inspire or inform others

This is a recognition-led award. There is no cash prize. The focus is on credibility, visibility, and professional recognition.

Apply or nominate someone here

Award Recognition

The recipient of the Youth Conservation Tech Award 2026 will receive:

  • Formal recognition at a high-visibility plenary session

  • A certificate of recognition

  • Supported participation in the Global Conservation Tech & Drone Forum 2026

  • Inclusion in official event communications and post-event reporting

How to Apply or Nominate Someone

Applications and nominations are submitted through a short online form.

You will be asked about:

  • The conservation challenge addressed

  • The technology used

  • How it was applied in practice

  • The impact achieved

  • The nominee’s personal role and leadership

Supporting links such as photos, videos, or reports are welcome .

Apply or nominate someone here