AWF Fund
The Amaya Wangeshi Foundation recognises the tremendous transformative power of youth. Accordingly, investing in young leaders at the start of their journeys is of utmost importance to us.
To support this, we have developed two programmes: the AWF Fund and the AWF Leaders of Tomorrow.
The AWF Fund is a mini-grant programme that provides funding to youth with innovative ideas or ongoing projects that address pressing needs in their communities. Recipients of this fund will also be automatically inducted into the AWF Leaders of Tomorrow programme.
Applications to the AWF Fund are open to groups of anyone up to the age of 24. Grants will be ranging from 100-500 USD, depending on project needs. Applications will open October 1st, 2024 and close December 1st, 2024 with project approvals contingent on available funding. If funding is unavailable but we see potential in your project, you may receive an invitation to join our AWF Leaders of Tomorrow program.
Upon receiving a mini-grant, all recipients must agree to our terms and conditions, which include participating in our reporting system to ensure accountability. Detailed information about these requirements will be provided to those awarded the grant.
We encourage everyone to apply and look forward to being inspired by your innovative ideas!
Application Overview
We will be reviewing projects on the basis of organisational quality, creativity, potential for success, and overall passion.
Below are the various stages of our application cycle:
Stage One: "The First Date"
This stage will consist of both written and video components. Introduce both your team and your project. This section is to help us better understand who you are, what your project is, as well as why you believe this work is needed in your community.
Stage Two: "Okay, We're Getting Serious"
This stage will consist of an official interview. Here, we will ask any follow-up questions as well as use this as a chance to properly meet. Following this interview, the applying team will receive personalised action items to more closely examine the team’s work ethic.
Stage Two: "The Big Ask!"

Following an extensive review of all application materials and notes, we will choose the projects both most aligned with our mission and capacity.
We will notify applicants of their status as we progress from each stage. We want to thank all applicants of their efforts and passion in advance, we would love to accept every proposal but we are a small organisation <3
Applications Open November 1st, 2024 and close
December 31st, 2024!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the AWF Fund? // Groups consisting of members 24 or younger. There is no maximum number for group member, however, there must be at least two people in the group.
What kind of projects is AWF looking for? // We are looking for projects that address pressing needs in your community and offer innovative, creative, and sustainable solutions. Your project can be at the idea stage or already ongoing, but it should have clear goals, a plan for implementation, and the potential to create a meaningful impact.
What is the range of the mini-grants? // Grants will range from $100 to $500, depending on the specific needs of your project and the funding available at the time.
When do applications open and close? // Applications open on November 1st, 2024, and will close on December 31st, 2024. Be sure to submit your application within this window.
How do I apply? // The application process has three stages: * Stage One: “The First Date” – Submit a written and video introduction of your team and project. * Stage Two: “Okay, We're Getting Serious” – Attend an official interview where we’ll discuss your project in more detail. * Stage Three: “The Big Ask!” – We’ll review all materials and notify you if your project has been selected.
Do I need to have a registered organisation to apply? // Not at all! We are looking for passionate youth with strong ideas and the ability to execute them, whether it is still an idea or has already transitioned into an ongoing project.
What if my project is great but there is no funding available? // If we see potential in your project but are unable to provide funding at the time, you may still receive an invitation to join our AWF Leaders of Tomorrow programme, where you can receive mentorship and support while we explore future funding opportunities.
Once applications open, any further questions can be directed via an AWF Fund specific form!