Anindita Chatterjee
Forbes Australia has unveiled its inaugural 30 Under 30 list, highlighting the achievements of some of the country’s most promising young entrepreneurs and innovators. This showcase shines a light on the vibrancy and talent present in Australia’s youth, particularly in sectors like media, technology, and sports.
Spotlight on Young Innovators
This year’s list features remarkable individuals who have demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and innovation at a young age. Among the honorees are Hannah Ferguson, founder of Cheek Media, and Zara McDonald and Michelle Andrews, co-founders of Shameless Media. They are joined by Zara Seidler and Sam Koslowski from The Daily Aus, reflecting the success and impact of youth in Australian media.
These entrepreneurs are part of a broader trend where Australia’s young founders have raised over $100 million in funding. Their focus on sustainable growth and international expansion is reshaping how Australian companies approach the global market.
Media Stars on the Rise
The media industry is particularly bursting with talent. Zara Seidler and Sam Koslowski, co-founders of The Daily Aus, have grown their digital platform significantly. With over 565,000 followers and a recent $1.2 million capital raise, they have effectively diversified their content strategy to include newsletters and podcasts, now boasting 226,000 subscribers and 130,000 monthly listeners.
Zara McDonald and Michelle Andrews have also made a splash with Shameless Media, reaching a dedicated audience with their distinct take on media that resonates with younger generations.
From Sports to Entertainment
Australia’s representation in sports has been remarkable, showcased by athletes like Jess Fox and Ariarne Titmus. Fox made history by becoming the first Australian canoe slalom athlete to compete in four Olympics and recently served as the flag-bearer for her country. Titmus, at just 23 years old, captured gold in the women’s 400-meter freestyle and still holds the world record.
In the entertainment sector, iconic names are also emerging. Singer-turned-entrepreneur Troye Sivan, Hollywood star Jacob Elordi, and singer-songwriter Tkay Maidza have made waves, with achievements that include four Grammy nominations and nine Billboard Music nominations across their careers.
The Selection Process
Forbes follows a rigorous selection process for its 30 Under 30 list. They start by inviting the public to nominate candidates through online submissions. Once nominations are gathered, the Forbes editorial team assesses each candidate.
They consult industry experts and previous list alumni to uncover additional nominees. The editorial team narrows down these submissions to create a long list that is then evaluated by a panel of independent judges. This inaugural panel included notable figures like Craig Blair from Airtree and the co-founders of Immutable, Robbie and James Ferguson.
Key Criteria for Selection
Judges examine several essential factors, including:
- Funding and revenue: Assessing the financial backing and income of each candidate.
- Social impact: Evaluating how nominees contribute positively to society.
- Innovation: Recognizing unique ideas and approaches.
- Potential for scale: Identifying how far nominees can grow in their industries.
The final list comprises individuals who are 29 years or younger as of December 31, 2023, demonstrating that age is no barrier to success.
Celebrating Future Leaders
Forbes Australia’s first-ever 30 Under 30 list does more than showcase talent; it serves as a reminder of the potential that exists among young Australians. The list is filled with names that have already made a significant impact and hold promise for the future.
These young leaders are not just participating in their industries; they are shaping them. As they continue to innovate and push boundaries, they pave the way for future generations.
With the country rapidly evolving in technology, media, and sports, the achievements of these young entrepreneurs highlight a vibrant future for Australia. Their stories inspire others to pursue their dreams and strive for success.
For those interested in the future of innovation and entrepreneurship, Forbes has published the complete 30 Under 30 list, available in stores and via subscription. This list exemplifies the extraordinary talent thriving in Australia today and sets the stage for the innovators of tomorrow
