Mediaweek - Next Of The Best 2025
Friday 13 June, 2025 - W Sydney
Mediaweek proudly presents Next Of The Best 2025.
These prestigious awards are dedicated to honouring the talented leaders of today and tomorrow who are shaping the future of Australia’s media landscape. Next Of The Best recognises the industry’s rising stars based on their impact, success and contribution to their company, sector or the wider industry in the last 12 months.
ENTER NOWThese are not age-based awards, but open to anyone who has been working in their current field or role for 15 years or less.
A distinguished panel of judges will select the winning candidates from a shortlist, and we will honour these trailblazers with a night they will never forget, celebrating the next wave of industry leaders, change-makers and creative forces.
Past winners currently hold stellar careers within the media and now hold some of the most powerful and influential leadership positions in Australia. They work at News Corp Australia, Seven Network, Endemol Shine Australia, 2GB Breakfast, The Kyle & Jackie O Show, ARN, Rolling Stone, OMD Sydney, Initiative Australia, Paramount ANZ, GroupM, TikTok AUNZ, Foxtel Media and many more.
Categories
There are 15 categories to enter from all areas of the media, including publishing, digital, marketing, sales, adtech and advertising.
Audio Talent (Host, Producer, Creator)
Recognising professionals who drive growth, innovation, and engagement in the audio and podcasting industries.
Marketing Talent
For professionals making waves in marketing through successful campaigns and innovative thinking.
Journalist (Print, Radio, TV, Digital)
Celebrating journalistic excellence with a focus on audience impact and storytelling.
Advertising Creative
Recognising creative talent shaping advertising through originality, campaign success, and audience engagement.
Marketing Strategist
For those excelling in strategic marketing, data-driven decision-making, and audience segmentation.
Digital/Social Content Creator or Influencer
Honouring digital creators who have demonstrated growth, creativity, and monetisation success.
Publicist (Agency/In-House)
Recognising rising publicists who have successfully shaped media narratives and public perception.
AdTech Specialist
Honouring professionals leveraging AdTech innovations to enhance digital advertising effectiveness.
Media Salesperson
Recognising media sales professionals driving revenue growth through strategic thinking and strong client relationships.
Media Planner & Buyer
Celebrating planners and buyers who excel through innovative thinking, data-driven decision-making, and impactful campaign execution.
Publishing Innovator
Recognising emerging talents in publishing who are redefining the industry through editorial excellence, and audience growth across print and online platforms.
TV & Film Production
Recognising the talent behind the camera of on-screen content production from the big to the small screen through creativity and commercial success.
Leadership
For exceptional leadership and impact at senior or executive level.
Changemaker
Recognising individuals who have made a significant impact in driving change, innovation, or transformation.
ENTER NOWEligibility
Open to professionals who have been in their current role for 15 years or less and who have delivered outstanding work between March 31st, 2024 - March 31st, 2025.
Nominees must provide examples of their work, with some categories requiring additional materials (e.g., sizzle reels, case studies, references).
Key Dates
Entries open: April 7th, 2025
Entries close: May 9th, 2025
Eligibility period: March 31st, 2024 to March 31st, 2025
Finalists announced: May 21st, 2025
Awards night: Friday June 13th, 2025 from 6:30pm
W Sydney, 31 Wheat Road, Sydney, NSW, 2000
Interested in sponsorship?
Send all enquires to Andrew Mulready at [email protected]
FAQs
What is Next Of The Best?
Next of the Best is Mediaweek’s annual awards event celebrating the rising stars of Australia’s media, advertising, and marketing industries. We recognise media professionals who are making a significant impact across various categories.
Is there an age limit?
No, this is not based on simply being under a certain age. Next of the Best awards are not aged-based but they are for individuals who have held their current role or worked in a field for 15 years or less.
Entries & Nominations
Can I enter myself and other people?
Yes, you can nominate yourself or be nominated by a colleague, employer, or industry peer.
Is there an entry fee?
No!
Can I enter multiple categories?
Yes, as long as you meet the criteria. Each entry must be tailored to the specific category.
How are winners selected?
A panel of industry experts will review all submissions based on innovation, impact, leadership, and contributions to the industry.
Voting & Judging
Who are the judges?
Our judging panel consists of senior media executives, past winners, and industry leaders. Their insights ensure a fair and transparent selection process. They will be announced soon.
Ticketing & Attendance
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available for purchase here.
What does my ticket include?
Your ticket grants access to the awards ceremony, networking opportunities, entertainment, a sit-down dinner with drinks and after-party.
Can I bring a guest?
Yes, additional tickets can be purchased for guests.
Will there be assigned seating?
Attendees will sit at designated tables during the awards ceremony.
Sponsorship & Media
Can I sponsor Next of the Best?
Yes! We offer sponsorship packages for brands looking to align with the next generation of media leaders. Contact Andrew Mulready [email protected] for details.
Contact Us
For any additional questions, reach out to us at: [email protected]