UNESCO Capture the Future Contest 2026 [Win Smartphone & Global Recognition]: Apply by May 31

Young storytellers worldwide are invited to apply for the Capture the Future: Global Youth Storytelling Initiative 2026, launched by UNESCO under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme in partnership with vivo.

The global contest aims to showcase how communities across UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are working toward sustainable living and environmental protection. Participants aged 18–35 years can submit mobile photography or short videos highlighting the relationship between people and nature.

The last date to apply is 31 May 2026.

About the UNESCO Capture the Future Contest

The “Capture the Future” initiative is a global youth storytelling competition designed to amplify voices documenting sustainability, biodiversity, and community innovation. Through photography and short-form videos, participants will share real-world stories from UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.

The initiative also aims to build a global network of young storytellers working toward climate action and sustainable development.

Who Can Apply

The competition is open to young individuals worldwide aged 18–35 years who have a connection with a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This includes residents, students, young professionals, and volunteers.

Participants must submit original visual content captured using mobile devices only. Employees of UNESCO and vivo, along with their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate.

Contest Categories

Participants can submit entries under two tracks:

• Photography Track — Submit one to three photographs telling a compelling story
• Short Video Track — Submit one short video up to three minutes

Entries must feature both people and nature, highlighting sustainable coexistence.

Themes You Can Cover

Submissions should focus on sustainability and community-led initiatives. Themes may include biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, ecosystem restoration, sustainable livelihoods, cultural traditions, environmental education, or green technology innovations.

Participants are encouraged to document real-world solutions and local actions contributing to a sustainable future.

Submission Requirements

Participants must submit original content captured using a smartphone or tablet. Minor editing such as color correction or cropping is allowed, but AI-generated or manipulated content is strictly prohibited.

Each submission must include a written description (maximum 1000 words) explaining the story, location, and relevance to sustainability themes.

Rewards and Benefits

Selected winners will receive:

• vivo smartphone for photography
• Visual storytelling training camp
• Global recognition and exposure
• Mentorship from experts
• Opportunity to participate in international conferences

Winners will be selected by an international jury based on storytelling strength, creativity, technical quality, and impact.

Important Dates

• Applications Open: 5 March 2026
• Deadline: 31 May 2026
• Winners Announcement: Expected by June 2026

How to Apply

Participants must submit entries through the official submission form along with required details and file transfer link.

Apply here: https://forms.office.com/e/gDZAVymhLw