30 Under 30 Awards September 23, 2020

Radio Today launches the audio industry’s first 30 Under 30 Awards

The next generation of radio talent and behind-the-scenes superstars are set to be celebrated at Radio Today’s inaugural 30 Under 30 Awards.

The 30 Under 30 Awards will recognise radio’s rising stars across sales, on-air, programming, marketing, music, content, news, podcasting, digital and campaigns.

Entries will open on September 28, and close on October 12. To keep updated with the awards, join the Radio Today newsletter and Facebook Event.

The shortlist will be revealed in November, ahead of the virtual event on Thursday November 26, when winners will be announced.

Three winners from each category will be chosen by Radio Today’s all-star judging panel, while the wider industry will also have its say via the Reader’s Choice poll.

The initiative is supported by ARN, Nine, SCA, NOVA, ACE Radio and Sony Music.

Radio Today editor Vivienne Kelly said despite everything that’s happened this year – event and awards cancellations, job losses, economic uncertainty, and a tough ad market – it’s the perfect time to recognise the industry’s younger talent and all they’ve achieved so far.

“It’s been a tough 12 months for radio, particularly those trying to start out and build a career amidst a pandemic, a recession and a brutal advertising market, but there’s still plenty of up-and-coming talent who have pushed through and are worthy of celebrating,” she said.

“The 30 Under 30 Awards gives everyone in the industry – young and old – something to look forward to, as we come together to recognise the best emerging talent and all they have created.”

Those who have lost their job in recent months due to cutbacks are still eligible to enter.

Check back next Monday, when entries open, for further eligibility and category criteria.

Radio Today 30 Under 30 Awards | 2020 Sponsors:

Southern Cross Austereo
“The radio industry is the talent hub for young rising stars and always will be. Attracting and retaining young talent is what gives SCA – and the radio industry – its unique advantage, creating a high-performance, not to mention, fun and engaging, environment.

“At SCA, we have long nurtured young talent and some of our most senior executives across many different disciplines have been with the organisation since their careers began. This is testament to the enduring passion people have for radio. We create a working environment that recognises and respects individuals’ unique contributions and encourages their full potential.

“Young talent brings a wealth of skills – a fresh perspective, different and innovative thinking, adaptability and great enthusiasm that drives us to want to do more and do it better.

“It is important to recognise and celebrate the industry’s rising stars and that’s why SCA is delighted to sponsor the inaugural 30 Under 30 Awards. The sheer amount of talent in this industry is outstanding, and we wish everyone the best of luck,” Grant Blackley, CEO, Southern Cross Austereo (SCA)

NOVA Entertainment
“It’s a pleasure to be partnering with Radio Today to recognise the next generation of up-and-coming talent. I’ve said it before, despite all the challenges of 2020, it is an exciting time in radio – events like this are proof of that.

“New leadership, and the injection of fresh ideas and energy that comes with it, is what has ensured the enviable lifespan of radio. It’s testament both to the strength of the medium and our continued relevance that we are attracting this calibre of young talent to the industry,” Peter Charlton, COO (and incoming CEO), NOVA Entertainment

Australian Radio Network
“It’s never been more important to recognise and celebrate the achievements of the rising stars of the radio and audio industry. These are the next generation of industry leaders, innovators and creators who are dedicated to ensuring the Australian audio industry has a bright future ahead,” Ciaran Davis, CEO, Australian Radio Network (ARN)

Nine
“Nine Radio are proud to be supporting Radio Today’s 30u30.

“Radio is a fabulous training ground for a career in media. I loved my time as a cadet at 2UE and learnt so much, very quickly. As a business we are eager to both support and celebrate the next generation or radio talent – on air and off air – through this important initiative,” Tom Malone, MD, Nine Radio

ACE Radio
“ACE Radio is excited to sponsor the 30 Under 30 initiative because we believe it is imperative to support and encourage the next generation of industry talent.

“At ACE, 35% of our staff are aged 30 and under. Now, more than ever, it’s important we keep this group engaged and motivated, particularly within the climate of COVID-19 which has forced the radio industry to adapt to some new and difficult circumstances.

“Ultimately, it is the younger generation of staff who will see us through this time and into the future, so we need to keep their passion and love for the industry alive. This means providing opportunities wherever possible to showcase and celebrate their talent. This is why we are proud to be involved in the 30 Under 30 initiative as it allows us to spotlight the future of our industry and why radio continues to be an integral part of the media landscape,” Mark Taylor, CEO, ACE Radio