AI Innovators Empower Artists, Revolutionize News, and Transform Video’s Future
In an era defined by technological innovation, young leaders in the media industry are reshaping content creation and distribution. This shift is prominently highlighted by the 2026 30 Under 30 Media list, showcasing remarkable individuals who are enhancing the landscape of news and art through artificial intelligence.
AI Innovators Redefining Media
Victor Perez, a 28-year-old from Barcelona, exemplifies this new wave. He embarked on integrating his passion for music and technology by studying audiovisual systems engineering at Universitat Pompeu Fabra. His curiosity about AI led him to co-found Krea in 2022, alongside Diego Rodriguez Prado. The platform empowers users to create professional-quality art, including photos and videos, without prior expertise. Krea has raised $83 million from renowned investors, such as Bain Capital Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz.
Engaging Gen Z with News
Jack Brewster, 29, founded Newsreel to address the gap between traditional journalism and younger audiences. Recognizing that conventional news formats failed to resonate with Generation Z, he created an interactive app that resembles social media platforms. Since its launch, Newsreel has garnered over 10,000 users and formed partnerships with universities, aiming to enhance news accessibility.
Another notable contributor, Aaron Parnas, 26, has made a name for himself with his politics newsletter, The Parnas Perspective. With 630,000 subscribers on Substack and 7 million social media followers, Parnas simplifies complex political issues, demonstrating an engaged youth populace eager for information.
Writers and Content Creators
Authors are also leveraging modern platforms to expand their reach. Eli Rallo, 27, began her journey on TikTok before publishing two non-fiction books, gaining traction with her online community, Prose Hoes. This platform includes a podcast and in-person events, indicating a shift in how literature is consumed and discussed.
Beyond Founders: Influencers in Established Organizations
- James Tralie (28): NASA creative producer, nominated for an Emmy for engaging audiences with the agency’s mission.
- Audrey Blackmore (26): Producer at sports media site Boardroom, generating 23 million monthly views with athlete coverage.
- Brent Liang (28): Leader of new media at Andreessen Horowitz, enhancing video production for portfolio companies.
The influence of AI and innovative platforms is unmistakably transforming the media landscape. These young leaders are blending creativity and technology to craft new narratives and experiences.
A Diverse and Dynamic Future
The 30 Under 30 Media class of 2026 reflects significant diversity, with 48% women and 35% identifying as people of color. Furthermore, 70% are founders, showcasing a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. All honorees met the age criterion of being 29 or younger by December 31, 2025.
This year’s list was thoughtfully curated through nominations and expert evaluations from industry professionals, ensuring a selection that represents the dynamic changes within the media sector. The emergence of AI-driven tools, social media platforms, and vibrant content formats is setting the stage for the next generation of media innovation.
As these pioneers forge ahead, their adaptations of technology are not simply replacements but opportunities that expand creative possibilities. The future of media is bright, driven by innovation and a commitment to accessibility.
