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The Audio Academy, formerly the Radio Academy, has opened applications for its 2026 “30 Under 30” program, which recognizes emerging talent across the United Kingdom’s audio industry.
Now in its 16th year, the annual initiative highlights 30 people under 30 working across radio, podcasting and wider audio. The program recognizes professionals from editorial, production, engineering, presenting, journalism, digital, commercial and technical roles, as well as freelancers and independent creators.
Applications close at 11:59 p.m. BST on Thursday, Aug. 21. Candidates can nominate themselves, while Audio Academy members can also submit nominations on behalf of others.
Broadcast technology company Aiir returns as headline sponsor for the 2026 program. The company said it continues to support the initiative to recognize emerging talent in the industry. Previous recipients have gone on to senior roles across the U.K. audio sector, including positions at Goalhanger, Platform Media, the BBC and Classic FM.
Aradhna Tayal Leach, managing director of the Audio Academy, said, “Over sixteen years, the Aiir Audio Academy 30 Under 30 has proven that our industry knows how to back its own talent. Every year, I look at the list and am awed and inspired by the breadth of skills and achievements. These are the people who are going to define what the future of audio looks and sounds like.”
Jimmy Buckland, chair of the 30 Under 30 judging committee and director of strategy & operations at News Broadcasting, encouraged young professionals from commercial, creative, production, digital and technical roles to apply.
Ricki Lee, chief executive officer of Aiir, said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with the Audio Academy to present 30 Under 30. We keenly await the list each year to meet the brightest minds in audio today.”
The Audio Academy expects to announce the 2026 30 Under 30 cohort later this year.
You can nominate or apply here.
You can find previous 30 Under 30 alumni lists here.
