Six emerging media talents make 2026 NGEN final

The Media Federation of Australia has named six finalists for the 2026 NGEN Award following a live presentation round in Sydney and Melbourne.

This year's finalists are UM's Pamela Anthony and Sarah Barlow, This is Flow strategist Annabelle Harrington, Match & Wood's Mackenzie Jones and Mia Jones and Wavemaker strategy manager Zoe Stanek.

Now in its 16th year, the award recognises media professionals with less than five years' industry experience.

Entrants responded to a brief from UnLtd charity partner Down The Track, which runs early intervention programs for at-risk young people in regional NSW. The highest-scoring entrants were given 24 hours' notice before presenting their ideas to the judging panel.

Tourism Australia general manager, brand, campaign and media Sarah Gallon said the finalists demonstrated the strength of emerging talent across the industry.

“The calibre of thinking, creativity and strategic insight demonstrated by these emerging professionals is a real testament to the strength of talent coming through our industry,” Gallon said.

The winner will be announced at the MFA Awards in Sydney on 24 September.