DW Akademie’s SparkChange Programme for Changemakers 2025

DW Akademie is inviting community champions from rural and peri-urban Uganda and Tanzania to pitch creative ideas that amplify youth and women’s voices in public life.

Are you someone who’s already working to make sure youth and women are heard and included in the conversations and decisions that shape their community?

Do you believe that when more voices are brought in—especially those that are often left out— communities become stronger, more vibrant, and more inclusive?

If you’re between 25 and 35, already active in this space, and have a bold, practical idea to build on your work – even if it’s small – SparkChange is for you.

SparkChange is backing people who are already doing the work—individuals who care deeply, who know their communities, and who are finding ways to make youth and women part of the conversation. 

DW Akademie is looking for those who are ready to take the next step: to grow their impact, test new ideas, and bring others along with them.?If that sounds like you, we’re ready to support what comes next. 

• Table of Content
• About DW Akademie
• DW Akademie SparkChange Programme
• Aim and Benefits of DW Akademie SparkChange Programme
• Requirements for DW Akademie SparkChange Programme Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About DW Akademie

We believe that independent media and responsible journalism are essential worldwide. Given Germany's history, we believe that people should be able to freely express their views and have access to independent sources of information. We consider this to be an important prerequisite for peace and democracy.

DW Akademie SparkChange Programme

Aim and Benefits of DW Akademie SparkChange Programme

If you’re selected to join SparkChange, you’ll take part in a hands-on, creative journey designed to grow your leadership and bring your idea to life. Here’s what’s in store: 

• Idea Lab (August 17–23, 2025): Develop your idea with expert support in design, communication, and community engagement. 
• Action Lab (December 8–11, 2025): Build a prototype and prepare to pilot your idea. 

You’ll also receive: 

• Practical training in design, communication, proposal writing, and pitching 
• Ongoing coaching and mentorship 
• A chance to apply for seed funding 
• A regional network of changemakers from Uganda and Tanzania 

Requirements for DW Akademie SparkChange Programme Qualification

This opportunity is for you if you: 

• Are 25–35 years old 
• Live in, or are actively working in, a rural or peri-urban community in Uganda or Tanzania 
• Are already involved in amplifying youth and/or women’s voices—either as an individual or through an organization 
• Have experience working with youth or women, and a clear idea of how to build on that work 
• Can use basic digital tools like WhatsApp or email 
• Can speak and understand English 
• Are available to travel to Kampala in August and December 2025 (travel and accommodation will be covered) 

Application Deadline

How to Apply

DW Akademie is not asking for a formal proposal. Instead, DW invite you to pitch your idea in a creative way that clearly shows what you want to do and why it matters. 

You can submit a video, audio message, drawing, photo story, or any expressive format—as long as it answers the following questions: 

• What is the idea you want to develop? 
• Why is it important for youth and/or women in the community? 
• How do you plan to make it happen? 
• Who will be involved or benefit from it? 
• What makes you the right person to lead this idea? 

For more details, visit DW Akademie Programme webpage