RUSSH Media celebrates its 20th anniversary today with the launch of the Legacy issue. The latest print edition features two striking covers, each spotlighting rising Australian talents Anna Robinson and Akon Changkou, who are on the cusp of global recognition.
After two decades as an independent brand, publisher and editor Jess Blanch acknowledges that reaching this milestone is a remarkable achievement in today’s challenging publishing landscape.
“When RUSSH was launched in 2004, it was named to capture the ‘RUSSH of optimism and energy in Australia’ at that time,” Blanch said. “It’s humbling to reflect on the community of creative minds we’ve cultivated over the past two decades. Like many Australian brands, RUSSH was built on a foundation of freedom, and it’s gratifying to see that spirit alive and thriving across our platforms today.”
Far from being retrospective, the November issue breaks new ground. It features the first-ever portfolio of 20 Australian Creative Minds who embody the evolving face of contemporary culture. This edition also highlights thought leaders like Californian writer Honor Levy, Belgian designer Dries Van Noten, anti-capitalist beauty writer Jessica DeFino, and iconic Australian artist Polly Borland. Conversations extend to Miss Kaninna, the first independent Indigenous woman ARIA-nominated for a debut single in three decades, and Indigenous rap group 3%, who transform pain and prejudice into powerful music.
“These pages are a testament to evolution, showcasing artists who challenge the status quo and icons celebrated for their lesser-known work,” Blanch said. “As we step into a new chapter, let this be our legacy: to stay comfortably on the edge, consistently moving forward, yet always ensuring no one is left behind.”
In line with this spirit of growth, RUSSH Media continues to expand its print presence, with the November 2024 Legacy issue surpassing 300 pages. This release marks one of the final highlights in a year-long celebration of 20 years of independent publishing. Earlier in the year, RUSSH Media launched RUSSH Beauty, an annual print title that redefines beauty in relatable terms, alongside the third edition of its successful annual RUSSH Home.
The Legacy issue of RUSSH, commemorating two decades of independence, will be available from 14th November 2024 at major newsstands and online at shop.russh.com. Founded in 2004, RUSSH Media stands as one of Australia’s leading independent publishers, reaching over 8 million people monthly across its channels.