Africa Philanthropy Network
The African Philanthropy Conference (APC) has officially opened public nominations for its Lifetime Achievement Award honours in the philanthropic space.
The award will be presented during the 6th African Philanthropy Conference, taking place from 27 to 31 July 2025 at the American University in Cairo, Egypt.
This award recognises individuals who have shown outstanding dedication, leadership, and long-term impact in advancing philanthropy across Africa.
It seeks to celebrate those whose visionary work has strengthened communities, inspired others, and helped build a more robust and responsive philanthropic ecosystem.
Nominations are open to all, including peers, collaborators, mentees, and admirers, offering a unique opportunity to highlight the legacy of Africa’s philanthropic champions.
A Legacy of Leadership
Since its inception, the Lifetime Achievement Award has served as a signature honour of the African Philanthropy Conference, highlighting the values of African-led giving and collaborative change-making.
Past recipients have included respected leaders such as Graça Machel, Akwasi Aidoo, Gerry Salole, and Tade Aina—individuals whose work continues to influence philanthropic thinking and practice on the continent and beyond.
Nomination Criteria
Nominees must demonstrate a clear record of impact, influence, and leadership in the philanthropic field. The selection committee will consider the following:
- A minimum of 10 years of sustained engagement in African philanthropy
- Influence that extends beyond national or regional boundaries
- Evidence of leadership and mentorship within the sector
- A clear commitment to pan-African ideals and African-led development
- A strong reputation and integrity
- Global engagement with philanthropic and development partners
- Demonstrated thought leadership and knowledge contribution
- Measurable impact on community well-being
- Support for building the infrastructure of philanthropy in Africa
- Collaboration with the private sector and policy stakeholders
- Contributions to transformative and inclusive giving models
Spotlight: 2024 Honouree – Dr. Tade Aina
The 2024 award was presented to Dr. Tade Aina, a renowned scholar, institution builder, and thought leader whose decades-long contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of African philanthropy.
His work spans leadership roles at the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR), the Ford Foundation, and the Carnegie Corporation of New York, where he championed African-led research, higher education reform, and philanthropic infrastructure.
Dr. Aina has been a driving force in connecting philanthropy to policy, development, and knowledge systems, while also mentoring a generation of African researchers and practitioners.
His recognition reflects the kind of leadership the award seeks to celebrate: those whose lifelong efforts continue to strengthen and transform Africa’s philanthropic ecosystem.
How to Nominate
To nominate a deserving individual:
- Complete the nomination form
- Upload supporting materials
- Deadline: 1 July 2025
All nominations will be reviewed by an awards Committee composed of experienced leaders in the philanthropic field.
About the African Philanthropy Conference (APC)
The African Philanthropy Conference (APC) is an annual platform that brings together philanthropists, researchers, practitioners, and policy actors to explore and advance African-led giving.
Rooted in pan-African values and collaborative action, the conference fosters dialogue on the role of philanthropy in driving sustainable development across the continent.
Since its inception, APC has provided a space to reflect on trends, celebrate leadership, and co-create solutions that strengthen Africa’s philanthropic ecosystem.
Each year, the conference highlights innovation, knowledge sharing, and inclusive practices that centre African agency and impact.
