The World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 has invited young public relations practitioners, students and innovators to participate in its Youth Innovation Programmes, with winners set to receive up to $2,000 in prizes.
The call for participation was announced in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Youth and Students Event for WPRF 2026, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, who described the initiative as a global platform aimed at discovering fresh ideas, promoting creativity and empowering the next generation of communication professionals.
Omenugha explained that the Youth Innovation Programmes form a key part of activities lined up for the global forum, which is expected to bring together professionals, scholars and industry leaders from across the world.
He said the programme offers young people a rare opportunity to showcase their talents on both continental and international stages.
“The Forum and the Youth Innovation Programmes present unique opportunities for young thinkers, creative strategists and emerging voices in public relations to showcase their talents on a continental and global stage,” he said.
According to him, the initiative is designed to encourage young professionals to contribute innovative ideas that will shape the future of the public relations and communication industry, particularly at a time when technology, digital media and storytelling are rapidly changing how organisations engage with the public.
He added that beyond being a competition, the programme also serves as a platform for mentorship, exposure and professional development.
Participants, he noted, are required to register officially for the WPRF 2026 before submitting their entries, as eligibility for shortlisting, pitching and final awards is strictly tied to full registration for the event.
“Submitting your project alone does NOT qualify you; you must complete official event registration to be eligible for shortlisting, pitching, and final awards,” Omenugha stated.
He further explained that applicants can participate either as individuals or as teams, depending on the category, but all submissions must be original, innovative and in line with the guidelines provided by the organisers.
The competition is divided into three major categories. These include the PR Tech Innovation Challenge, which is designed for teams of three to five participants; the PR4SDGs Innovation Challenge, open to individuals or small groups of up to four; and the Cultural Storytelling and PR Exchange Hackathon, which is also structured for teams of three to five members.
“Participants may apply as individuals or teams depending on the category. Programme Categories include: PR Tech Innovation Challenge (Teams of 3–5), PR4SDGs Innovation Challenge (Individuals or teams of up to 4), and Cultural Storytelling & PR Exchange Hackathon (Teams of 3–5),” he explained.
The programme is open to a wide range of participants, including students of public relations, young professionals aged 35 and below, as well as innovators working in media, technology, non-governmental organisations, creative industries and other communication-related fields.
Omenugha highlighted that successful participants will gain significant exposure, including the opportunity to present their ideas before leading professionals and global stakeholders.
He also noted that participants will compete for cash prizes, with the top winner receiving $2,000, while the second and third positions will receive $1,000 and $500 respectively.
“Successful participants will have the opportunity to present their ideas before leading professionals and global stakeholders, gain international visibility and compete for prizes,” he said.
The organisers emphasised that the programme is intended to promote bold thinking and encourage solutions capable of addressing real communication challenges within Africa and beyond.
Omenugha urged interested applicants to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the global public relations industry is evolving rapidly and requires fresh perspectives from young innovators.
“This is more than a competition; it is a platform to lead, disrupt, and define the future of Public Relations in Africa and the world,” he declared.
He further stressed that strict compliance with the programme rules is essential, warning that any form of plagiarism, false information or non-compliance with guidelines will result in immediate disqualification.
Interested participants are expected to complete their applications before the deadline of April 24, 2026.
Further details about the Youth Innovation Programmes and registration can be accessed via the official portal at www.wprf2026.niprng.org.ng/youth-innovation-challenge, while registration for the main event is available at www.wprf2026.niprng.org.ng/tickets.
Omenugha reiterated that participation in the competition is strictly tied to full registration for WPRF 2026, adding that only fully registered participants will be considered for shortlisting and final awards.
