Entries for Mediaweek’s Next of the Best 2025 are now open.
These annual awards celebrate the rising stars and trailblazers shaping the Australian media landscape, by recognising emerging leaders in the advertising, media, and marketing industries.
There is no age limit as these awards are open to those who have worked in their current profession for 15 years or less, recognising people who are making significant impact through contributions to their company, sector, and the wider industry.
But what’s it like to win and what happens next?
Here’s what just a few of the past winners have to say a year on from their win.
Henry Innis, Next of the Best Leadership Award
Henry Innis
“It’s always nice, particularly when you’re slogging through business, to kind of take a moment to reflect on where you’ve gone, what you’re doing, the team and the people around you as well, which always makes a huge difference to these things.
“No-one will back you if you don’t back yourself. These awards show people that belief exists – and why you’re worth backing. They help codify your value and attract great people. I have no doubt that one reason we’ve built one of the best teams in the country is because we’ve been clear about who we are and what we stand for.”
Andie Potter, AdTech Award
“The whole vibe of the night is exciting, you’re surrounded by brilliant people. When they called my name, I was shocked. You sort of blank out in the moment. Later, you reflect on what it means and what you’ve gone through to get there. It’s a reward for all the hard work and personal sacrifice.
Did I prepare a speech? On the night – which does feel like our industry’s version of the Oscars – I quickly jotted some notes in my phone, just in case. I didn’t want to get up there and have nothing to say.”
Emily Cook, Next of the Best Culture Award
Emily Cook
“I was privileged to win the Culture category at Next of the Best last year, and I have to say – it was an excellent night. I had an awesome time at the awards, it was also just a really nice night to connect across the industry.
“What I loved most was that everyone had the opportunity to be heard, to give a speech, and to thank the people who support them. Because let’s be real – most of us are a product of the people and environment around us. If someone has tapped you on the shoulder and said, “You should enter,” that means they see you. So own it. You’ve got a story worth sharing.”
Kieran Simpson, Next of the Best Social Media Specialist
Kieran Simpson
“It was a great night for building connections that actually lasted.
“If you go to work every day and you’re proud of what you do, that’s enough. Even if you don’t win, meeting people in your industry is invaluable. You realise you’re not the only one facing challenges, and those conversations help you feel seen. It’s worth it for that alone.”
ENTER THE AWARDS HERE
This year, there are 15 awards.
Audio Talent (Host, Producer, Creator)
Recognising standout voices or producers driving growth, innovation, and engagement in the audio and podcasting industries.
Marketing Talent
For marketing professionals who have made a significant impact in their roles, working to drive successful campaigns with measurable results.
Marketing Strategy
Celebrating talented marketing strategists who have built and executed data-driven strategies leading to measurable business outcomes.
Journalist (Digital/Print/TV)
Recognising journalists who have demonstrated exceptional talent and excelled in their craft, making an impact through one or several stories.
Advertising Creative
For talented advertising creatives who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and achieved measurable success through one or more campaigns.
Digital Content Creator & Influencer
For content creators or influencers who have made a significant impact across digital platforms by demonstrating impressive growth in followers, engagement, or revenue with their own creativity and business acumen.
Publicist (Agency/In-House)
For publicists who have excelled in crafting and executing PR campaigns and garnered significant media traction.
AdTech Specialist
Talented AdTech experts who are driving innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness through data-driven solutions.
Media Salesperson
For media sales professionals who are driving revenue growth through strategic thinking, creativity, and strong client relationships.
Media Planner and Buyer
Recognising emerging talent in media planning and buying and shaping the future of media strategy through innovative thinking, data-driven decision-making, and impactful campaign execution.
Publishing Innovator
For editors, publishers and writers who have demonstrated exceptional innovation in the publishing industry. From cutting-edge publishing models to new digital strategies, these are the change-makers who have significantly impacted their business.
TV and Film Production Talent
Recognising talent behind the camera in content production, from big to small screen, through creativity and commercial success.
Data & Research Specialist
Recognising experts who excel in the use of data and research to drive decision-making, insights, and innovation within the media industry.
Change Maker
For individuals who are driving meaningful change within the media industry, whether through disruptive innovation, cultural transformation, or leadership that inspires progress.
Leadership
For exceptional leadership and impact at senior or executive level within the media industry.
The awards will be presented on Friday, 13 June at W Sydney with an unforgettable evening. For more details and to buy tickets, head here.