Google has launched a competition where five Africans can each win $25 000 (approximately R260 000) for sharing their stories about how the Web has transformed their lives and work.
The Internet giant says the Africa Connected competition is meant to showcase the "amazing achievements happening in Africa".
In the next five years, seven out of the world's 10 fastest growing economies are predicted to be in Africa, and the Internet is playing an important part in this, says the company in a statement.
"Google's new initiative aims to gather the largest collection of inspiring stories about ventures established online by Africans, in Africa. Google wants to hear from young, spirited entrepreneurial Web adopters, who have a healthy disregard for the impossible and who are using the Web and technology to do cool and extraordinary things to rise above their circumstances, change their world, and achieve success."
As an example, the company names Mdu Ntuli, a South African artist who grew up loving comics and trained himself as an animator using YouTube tutorials. He now owns a successful YouTube channel showcasing his animated films, some of which feature isiZulu and Xhosa content - two of these were among SA's top viewed videos of 2012.
Judge Leslie Sedibe, CEO of Proudly South African, says research has shown South Africans have a strong appetite for getting online. "Whether you are in technology, agriculture, energy, fashion, education, or entertainment, if the Web has transformed your life, and you believe your venture can be scaled up, then the judging panel is looking forward to hearing your story."
Submissions will close on 11 October. More information can be found on the Africa Connected Web site.
Share
