Sudanese documentary photographer Ammar Yassir has been named a 2026 National Geographic Young Explorer, joining a cohort of 20 young changemakers from 17 countries announced by the National Geographic Society on 6 October 2026.
Yassir, 21, is based between Sudan, Uganda and Germany. His work focuses on displacement, migration and refugee communities across East Africa.
The 2026 cohort brings together young people aged 18 to 25 working across fields including storytelling, science, technology and engineering. The recipients were selected through a competitive, multi-stage nomination and application process.
As a Young Explorer, Yassir will receive a monetary award, tailored training and mentorship, and access to a global network of peers and experts. Recipients can also access additional project funding and support to develop their ideas, strengthen their work and expand the reach of their initiatives.
The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organisation that supports science, exploration, education and storytelling to help illuminate and protect the natural and cultural world. Founded in 1888, it has awarded more than 16,000 grants for work across all seven continents and reaches millions of students through its educational programmes.
For more infomration, visit https://news.nationalgeographic.org/2026-young-explorers/.
