Young media professionals worldwide are invited to apply for the International News Media Association (INMA) 30 Under 30 Awards, which recognise emerging talent shaping the future of the news media industry.
The awards spotlight 30 outstanding individuals under the age of 30 who demonstrate early career achievements, innovation, leadership potential, and the ability to influence the evolving media landscape. The application deadline is June 19, 2026.
About the awards
The INMA 30 Under 30 Awards are part of the association’s Young Professionals Initiative, which seeks to amplify the contributions of Millennial and Generation Z professionals in news media. The initiative aims to identify individuals who are helping to reimagine news organisations in an increasingly complex digital environment.
Selected candidates will reflect the diversity of global media markets, including across race, gender, and professional backgrounds.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be employed by a news media organisation
- Be under 30 years old as of June 19, 2026
- Demonstrate strong career achievements and professional impact
- Show the ability to think strategically about the future of the media industry
- Exhibit leadership qualities, including teamwork, curiosity, and entrepreneurial drive
Award categories
Five individuals will be recognised in each of INMA’s six global communities:
- Advertising
- Data
- Management
- Editorial and newsroom
- Product
- Reader revenue
Selection process
Applications will be reviewed by members of the INMA Young Professionals Initiative Committee, alongside representatives from the broader INMA community.
Application details
There is no application fee for the awards. Interested candidates can apply directly through this form or nominate a colleague using the same application form.
The deadline for submissions is Friday, June 19, 2026.
