Rising Star of the Year Finalists | SocialDay's Social Media Marketing Awards 2026

Written by Lydia Woellwarth and reviewed, fact-checked and signed off by a SocialDay editor before publication. Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted something wrong? Tell the newsroom.

The Finalists Revealed: Rising Star of the Year

Five years in or fewer and already making serious noise. The best rising stars aren't waiting for permission to lead, they're already operating above their experience level, bringing creative instinct, fresh thinking and the confidence to shape how their teams and organisations approach social media.

The Rising Star of the Year category celebrates the next generation of talent pushing the industry forward. This year's shortlist is packed with exceptional individuals who have already made a remarkable impact early in their careers.

Congratulations to our shortlisted finalists:

  • Jess Grayson
  • Alfie Robinson
  • Alice May Stenson
  • Angela Tafalla
  • Ania Holland
  • Chloe Start
  • Ejide Tondu
  • Ella Prosser
  • Evelina Dubynska
  • Hannah Bough
  • Holly Wake
  • Raina Das
  • Rose Nepthys Homayoun
  • Sophie Clarke

The winner will be revealed live at the Social Media Marketing Awards 2026, 8th October, where we'll celebrate the people, teams and campaigns setting the standard for social media marketing. Grab a ticket to attend the event and celebrate together!

Congratulations to all of this year's finalists!!