Now Open to the Public

The African Philanthropy Conference is proud to announce that nominations for the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award are now officially open to the public.

This award honours individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact in advancing philanthropy on the African continent over an extended period. It celebrates visionaries whose sustained efforts have improved community well-being, inspired others, and strengthened the philanthropic ecosystem in Africa.

We are now inviting nominations from across the sector. Whether you are a peer, partner, mentee, or admirer, you are encouraged to put forward outstanding individuals whose legacy deserves to be recognised.

About the Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award has been a cornerstone of the APC since inception, celebrating the values and leadership that drive African-centred giving. Past recipients include highly respected figures such as Graça Machel, Akwasi Aidoo, Gerry Salole, and Tade Aina—each a testament to the calibre and integrity this award represents.

Who Should Be Nominated?

We’re looking for individuals who fit the following criteria:

Selection Criteria

• Longevity in engaging with the philanthropy field: Recognizing that significant impact can be made both in short and extended durations, a minimum engagement period of ten years is deemed appropriate for this lifetime achievement recognition.
• Spread and scope of engagement include influence beyond one’s country, region, and beyond.
• Leadership in the field includes catalytic roles and mentoring others, among other leadership functions.
• Putting Africa First (aka pan-Africanist)
• Reputation
• Global influence and engagement with global philanthropies
• Thought leadership and knowledge building.
• Impact
• Contribution to the growth of the philanthropy infrastructure
• Engagement with the private sector and policy communities
• Advancing transformative philanthropy

How to Nominate

Submit your nomination by completing the nomination form and uploading supporting materials by: 1 July 2025

All nominations will be reviewed by a dedicated Awards Committee comprised of experienced leaders in the philanthropic space.

The award will be presented during the conference, taking place from 27–31 July 2025 at the American University in Cairo.

Help us honour those who have shaped philanthropy on the continent. Submit your nomination today.

For any queries, please email: chukwudi@trustafrica.org