Today The Radio Academy - the UK’s membership charity dedicated to the promotion of excellence in audio and radio - announced its ’30 under 30’ list, in collaboration with ReelWorld. The list is a celebration of those at the top of their game in audio, and still aged under 30. The names were released by The Radio Academy throughout the day on social media, where we heard from each of the thirty people in their own words about their career highlights.
Featuring content creators, news editors, presenters, producers, production managers and more, from independent companies to major broadcasters and podcast platforms, the 2023 list showcases the sheer breadth and diversity of talent working in the UK audio and radio industry today.
Stars who have featured on the list in previous years include Crowd Network’s Steve Jones and presenter Yasmin Evans, along with a host of others who have received the award at an early stage in their career and gone on to global success.
This year’s list is no different. The Radio Academy welcomed hundreds of nominations through a highly competitive judging process to present its list of thirty for 2023, which is supported by ReelWorld.
Aradhna Tayal Leach, Managing Director, The Radio Academy explained why it is such an important recognition to make the cut:
“I am delighted to announce The ReelWorld Radio Academy 30 Under 30 list, one of the most prestigious and competitive accolades in our sector. It is our annual list of hugely inspirational people who are already making waves in the industry and are becoming the leaders of tomorrow.
The 2023 list features the champions of radio and audio who have demonstrated passion, skill and an understanding of the medium that shows a dedication to our listeners, and to our own audio community.
We hope that this mark of recognition from The Radio Academy promotes their achievements to date and empowers them to continue in their professional and personal endeavours.
To every professional who applied, not just those who made the final list, I hope you feel proud of your own achievements and I am grateful for you sharing these with us. I wish you every success with the next stage of your career in our amazing industry.”
Steve Parkinson, Chief Strategic Partnerships and Events Officer at Bauer Media Audio UK, steps down as Chair of Judges for 30 Under 30 after 11 years at its helm. He said:
“It has been an honour and a privilege to have been asked to preside as Chair over such an exciting and popular initiative for the last eleven years. My thanks and appreciation to Jimmy as he steps in to the role, and I very much look forward to reading the names of emerging talent in the years to come.”
Incoming Chair of The Radio Academy for 2024, Jimmy Buckland, a former 30 Under 30 himself in 2011 and now Director of Strategy at News Broadcasting, said:
“As a member of the first 30 Under 30 in 2011, it’s a special honour to be asked to take over as Chair. I’d also like to extend a huge thank you to Steve on behalf of the industry and 30 Under 30 alumni for the energy and leadership he brought as outgoing Chair.
I have found it incredibly inspiring to read through the brilliant applications we received this year. The thirty young people who have made this year’s list exemplify the creativity, flair, passion and innovation that are the lifeblood of our industry. Their talent and achievements demonstrate that the future of audio is in safe hands.”
Anthony Gay, Managing Director of ReelWorld, 30 Under 30 sponsor said:
“This is ReelWorld’s 10th year associated with the Radio Academy’s ‘30 Under 30’ and that commitment reflects our passion for the future of the audio industry and our belief in the power of sound. The 30 Under 30 is an inspiring glimpse into that future and those who make the list are taking radio and audio in new and exciting directions.
The audio landscape continues to evolve rapidly and alongside the technological advancements I hold firm to the belief that sharing compelling stories and creating strong emotional connections is at the heart of what we do. On that note I’m excited to welcome the class of 2023 to the ReelWorld Radio Academy 30 Under 30. This is a highlight of our year.”
Meet the full 2023 list here.