Not Just Dance Moves: Educational Creators Feature in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia

Social media is no longer synonymous with mere entertainment content. Forbes has highlighted a new trend among Asia’s Gen Z, with educational creators discussing art, astronomy, global issues, and sexual health now dominating public attention.

This is evident in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 list under the Social Media, Marketing & Advertising category.

According to Forbes (27 May 2026), many young creators on this year’s list have built large audiences not through dance challenges or short viral clips, but by simplifying complex topics to make them more accessible to younger generations.

Creators are no longer just expected to entertain; they must also help audiences feel closer to social issues, science, culture, and world news.

One example is Indonesian creator Erika Richardo. With over 18 million followers on TikTok, she is known for combining art with storytelling and social issues.

Her fame grew after a video of her painting a Garuda Indonesia Boeing 737 went viral in 2025. The artwork commemorated Indonesia’s 80th independence anniversary with batik elements and illustrations of 16 ethnic groups from across the archipelago.

Erika has successfully used art to inspire young people to be more adventurous in experimenting and expressing their creativity.

Australian astrophysicist Kirsten Banks, also known as AstroKirsten, made the Forbes list for explaining black holes, cosmic discoveries, and extraterrestrial life in simple terms. She also incorporates Wiradjuri star culture into her content.

In Thailand, Nattanon Dungsunenarn has built the platform Spaceth.co, which covers astronomy and space exploration through articles, podcasts, and social media.