Wafaa M Rashed, Chair and Founder of Pan-African PGS Education and Research Initiative, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Announcing the PAPERI Voices of Genomics Challenge 2026 Awards
As part of PAPERI’s 2nd Anniversary Celebration, we are delighted to recognize the outstanding contributions to the inaugural PAPERI Voices of Genomics Challenge 2026.
Researchers from across Africa shared thoughtful, innovative, and practical ideas addressing some of the most important challenges facing genomics and healthcare on our continent. Their videos sparked conversations, inspired colleagues, and demonstrated the power of African voices in shaping Africa’s future.
Following public engagement through YouTube, we are pleased to announce this year’s award recipients:
People’s Choice Award
Comfort Danchal Vandu: Nigeria
Recognized for outstanding overall public engagement and the strong impact of her contribution.
Outstanding Public Outreach Award
Kouamé Ambroise Kintossou: Côte d’Ivoire
Recognized for achieving the widest audience reach and helping extend the conversation on genomics across communities.
Outstanding Community Engagement Award
Chukwu Caroline Goodnews: Nigeria
Recognized for generating exceptional and meaningful interaction within the scientific community.
Congratulations to our winners!
More importantly, congratulations to every participant who accepted the challenge. Every video contributed a valuable perspective and reinforced our belief that Africa is rich with talent, innovation, and solutions.
This challenge was never simply about selecting winners—it was about creating a platform where African researchers could share ideas, inspire one another, and help shape the future of genomics across the continent.
Together, we continue to build a stronger scientific community.
‘The PAPERI Voices of Genomics Challenge will return in 2027 with new themes, new ideas, and even more opportunities to showcase African leadership in genomics.’
Africa for Africans. Genomics Policy for Africa by Africans. Happy 2nd Anniversary, PAPERI!”
