Every time you open Instagram, you learn something new, get a spark of an idea, or laugh at something you must immediately share with your friends. Whether it’s a creative video, an intimate look behind the scenes of someone’s life on Stories, or an aesthetically pleasing and inspiring carousel, we’re constantly finding our niche (and our people) among millions of pieces of content thrown at us every day.
And none of it would be possible without the hard and thoughtful work of creators who use Instagram as their canvas to inspire. Instagram gives the creative flexibility to take something simple and give it a life of its own, one that touches so much more than just their followers.
Creating content that actually connects to people is hard work—what can seem so simple takes planning and effort. It’s why creators deserve recognition beyond likes, comments, and shares.
Enter Instagram’s Creators of Tomorrow—an annual program that recognizes and celebrates emerging talent who bring people together through their creativity. Basically, it’s a way to celebrate the hard work and talent, and share a group of people that we all need to be following ASAP.
While many of these people are certainly popular with their thousands, sometimes millions of followers, these aren’t your typical household-name celebs. And yet, they are leading the conversations in areas that impact our everyday lives like AI, fashion, and food. These creators span all walks of life, with different passions and strengths, from comedy to art to education, and each one of them brings something special to the world through the content they make on Instagram. No matter who keeps you coming back to Instagram—whether it’s a creator who feels like your bestie, one who sets the vibe, or one who teaches you something new—these creators span every niche possible.
Ahead, meet these must-follow creators and learn all about their advice for those who may want to take their lead, their hopes for the future, and, of course, what their IG communities mean to them.
The Vibe Curators: Austin, Haillee Lawson, Sophi St Louis, Alana Lintao, and Logan Moffitt
These are the creators who are setting the vibe through their storytelling. They find that perfect song to set the mood of a video, creating distinct visuals, and use voice-over to get you hooked and wanting more.
Austin, @austin.is.being
Teen Vogue: What does your community mean to you?
Austin: My IG community is a place to experience and share the joy you can produce all on your own. Whether that be through movement to a beat, fashionable expression, or simply smiling because you can, my community is a space where people can come and see that it’s appreciated by millions to look and flail around however you’d like in this life, because your smile is something you can create solo, not picked off of who or what surrounds you.
TV: What are your hopes for the future?
Austin: My hope for the future of the creator community is to shift the focus from “What can I post to gain more?” to “What can I share to ensure someone else’s well-being.” The desire to collect and gather online status to satiate the need to feel important and different is something we should be consciously changing because your view count doesn’t go to the afterlife with you, but what you share can uplift after you’re gone. Stop being cool, be humane.
Haillee Lawson, @luvofbows
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Haillee: Post things you relate to, like, and don’t be afraid if others do not like your content. The worst they can do is leave a comment, not like your post, or scroll past it. Don’t let other people’s opinions hold you back from something you enjoy!
TV: What inspires you?
Haillee: Fashion, movies, music, and arts. Being such a creative person, I have a deeper appreciation for things created by others. And they inspire me to feel certain vibes, express myself differently, and give me new ideas on concepts. I’m inspired by textures, colors, the human subject, relationships, beauty, balance, nature, and emotion. Being able to see how other artists use these things to create things from their viewpoints for others to enjoy is what deeply inspires me.
Sophi St Louis, @okaysophi
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Sophi: Be unapologetically yourself. People will support you for who you are, so don’t change to fit in. And above all, stay consistent.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Sophi: To be more inclusive, with space for all types of Black creators to shine!
Alana Lintao, @alanalintao
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Alana: My IG community is a haven for lightness and laughter. It’s a space where people come to take a break from life’s responsibilities and find joy in the everyday. My community thinks I’m funny, but honestly, I think they’re even funnier. Their comments often have me laughing harder than anything I post. I’m constantly reminded that we’re all here to make each other’s lives a little lighter and more fun.
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Alana: Think less, post more. The digital world often feels like a maze of endless possibilities and expectations, but the real secret is in taking action. Too many creators get lost in the perfectionism trap, trying to plan out every detail. Trust me, I get it. As someone who’s wrestled with overthinking, I’ve realized that your biggest obstacle is your own hesitation. Release the pressure, embrace imperfection, and create freely. The magic happens when you stop waiting for the perfect moment and start trusting your voice.
Logan Moffitt, @logansfewd
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Logan: Be very consistent and results will show!
TV: What inspires you?
Logan: Good food! I usually get inspired to create content using the food I love.
The Creator’s Inspo: Charles Curle, Hala Chaudhry, Hannah Wilson, Rachel Motley, and Adrian Per
Think of these talented people as your favorite creator’s, favorite creator. They use tools on Instagram in unique ways making even other incredible creators want to try them. They aren’t just trying out trends through Instagram; they are setting them—and what’s even better is that they’re never gatekeeping.
Charles Curle, @cjcvfx
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Charles: My IG community is full of very creative and artistic people. They are always asking such great questions and I love to help them out, knowing I was once also at the beginning stage not knowing what to do first to get started.
TV: What inspires you?
Charles: I am inspired by film and television. I have always been fascinated with how they make movies, wondering about what went on behind the scenes. My goal for the future is to be working for a big film company and to be in the end credits of big films in theaters and on streaming platforms.
Hala Chaudhry, @looksbyhala
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Hala: My IG community is like a big, fun friend group! We uplift each other and share inside jokes, just like best friends do.
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Hala: My number one piece of advice for aspiring creators is don’t be afraid to push boundaries and try something different. Carve out your own space by developing a unique formula for your content.
Hannah Wilson, @ihannahwilson
TV: What inspires you?
Hannah: The freedom of endless travel with no fixed plans. After quitting my job to travel the world and pursue social media full time, I’ve found that exploring new cities and spaces is one of the best ways to fuel my creativity and avoid burnout.
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Hannah: My IG community is bursting with main character energy, turning every photo or video opportunity into a cinematic masterpiece.
Rachel Motley, @therealrjm
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Rachel: My IG community reminds me what creativity is all about. They’ve taught me to enjoy the process and be open to exploration even when it’s new and uncomfortable.
TV: What was your first OMG moment as a creator?
Rachel: My first OMG moment as a creator was realizing how many people related to having a plethora of hobbies. I’m really putting on for the creators that can’t settle on just one discipline. You don’t have to choose, I’m proof!
Adrian Per, @omgadrian
TV: What inspires you?
Adrian: The pursuit of happiness.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Adrian: I hope the community realizes that numbers and analytics shouldn’t be your validation. The process of creating should be the most fulfilling part of it.
IG Besties: Jazmine Estrada, O’Neil Thomas, Carter Kench, Azalia Jules, and Zoe
If you haven’t commented “you’re so real for this” on one of these creator’s pages yet, you’re about to. These are the ones who are creating spaces for all of us to feel seen and heard, just like a best friend would. You may not know one another, but when you watch their content, you surely feel like you must have met one day.
Jazmine Estrada, @jaz.is.so.fab
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Jazmine: To always be true to your authentic self and prioritize building genuine relationships. Never compromise your values for opportunities—stay true to who you are. Embracing your true self will help attract a community of people who are genuinely drawn to your essence. Share your story openly, listen to others with empathy, and be present for the community who hold the power to change your life.
TV: What inspires you?
Jazmine: The power of human connection. I never would have thought social media could be a place where deep bonds are created. It’s truly amazing how a shared story or heartfelt message can resonate with someone. I am reminded daily of how social media can bring people together in meaningful and impactful ways. My community is an endless source of motivation and support. Their love, kindness, and encouragement uplift my soul, especially when I need it the most. They inspire me to grow and strive to be the best role model I can be.
O’Neil Thomas, @oneilthomas
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
O’Neil: Stay authentic and remain true to yourself! It’s so important to showcase your authenticity. We crave that more than you know. And make sure that you love your content for you first before the public. You wouldn’t want to create something you’re not proud of for the sake of ‘just posting.’
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
O’Neil: That IG continues to provide a safe space for people to see themselves and inspire more to want to create and connect with their community.
Carter Kench, @carterkench
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Carter: They are an escape, for everyone to come together and cherish the simple things in life. I strive to create a community where everyone feels like a kid again.
TV: What inspires you?
Carter: My grandma. She’s always believed in including everyone and ensuring they all feel loved. I try to create that for my community.
Azaila Jules, @axaila
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Azaila: To future creators: Stay consistent and always be you! Don’t fake it—your authenticity is what sets you apart. You’re you for a reason, and the right audience will find you. Be honest, stay faithful, and let your creativity shine. That’s what people connect with, and that’s what lasts. Don’t be scared to cringe or fear that people will make fun of you! Not everyone will like you or be supportive, and that’s okay! There will always be someone who doesn’t believe in your capabilities or dreams. Just don’t let that person ever be you!
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Azaila: My hope for the future creator community is that the future of the creator community might involve a space where creativity thrives without boundaries and where diverse voices and talents can be celebrated without pressure to conform to what society wants: to share the vulnerability, the ugly, the happy moments, and the real ones.
Zoe, @zoeunlimited
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Zoe: No effort goes to waste. It takes thick skin to test, fail, and repeat. The more repetition, the faster you grow!
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Zoe: My hope for the future of the creator community is to see more diversity, inclusion, and acceptance. I think social media is such a powerful means to connect rather than divide. I hope the general landscape is filled with more uplifting energy, positivity, and hope.
DM-Worthy Icons: Gio Pineda, Brian Coro, Asher Lieberman, Taylor Owen, and Jackie Gonzalez
You know the group DM that is constantly blowing up with IG reels, or the best friend who you are in communication with on 10 different apps? These creators are making the videos you’re constantly sending back and forth. They have made connecting with your friends for a laugh or inspiration that much easier, connecting you in ways you never knew possible.
Gio Pineda, @giofoodie
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Gio: Never doubt what you can accomplish, and be persistent in the goals you set for yourself.
TV: What inspires you?
Gio: Helping small businesses achieve their potential and to provide a platform for them.
Brian Coro, @iambriancoro
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Brian: Once you start, never stop. Keep going and pursue your happiness.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Brian: My hope for the future of the creator community is for content creation to expand more with AI and have more opportunities.
Asher Lieberman, @stinkyasher
Branding Graphics Photos
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Asher: My hope for the future of the creator community is to embrace authenticity. I want to see more creators sharing all sides of their journey, not just the highlight reel.
TV: What was your first OMG moment as a creator?
Asher: Getting recognized at my little sister’s dance recital!
Taylor Owen, @taylorgraysen
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Taylor: The REGS (short for The Regulars, which is similar to being a “regular” at a bar or a restaurant) are truly some of the funniest people, constantly cracking us up, whether it be a witty comment on one of our sketches or a DM about how my mom, Kiki (who only likes to be referred to as my stylist) won’t approve of my outfit. The undying support they continue to show us is a constant reminder to stay the course, and what James and I are doing is bigger than just ourselves.
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Taylor: At the risk of sounding cheesy, make whatever brings you happiness and makes you laugh. Ideally, you will be creating for a long time, and if what you’re creating isn’t bringing you joy, it won’t be authentic. Sometimes, it might not connect with an audience, but if it’s something you’re proud of then you’ve done the job. Also, keep going!
Jackie Gonzalez, @tismejackieg
TV: What inspires you?
Jackie: I am inspired by other deaf icons being deaf icons.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Jackie: My hope for the future of the creator community is to see diverse voices influencing and transforming the entertainment space!
AI Accelerators: Kim Alban, Chris Ashley, Maya Man, Ramon “Reo” Owen, and Willonius Hatcher
These are the creators who are taking the guesswork out of AI tools and making what can feel like an overwhelming technology into something usable. They give everyone inside looks into how AI can help your content stand out and help you work smarter, not harder.
Kim Alban, @kimalban
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Kim: My number one piece of advice for aspiring creators is to remember to show your weird side. That’s what makes you, you.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Kim: My hope for the future of the creator community is for it to continue growing! I think everyone has their own unique perspective that can be related to or looked up to. Having a community that you can relate to and share with is one of the best things in the world.
Chris Ashley, @chrisashley
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Chris: Just keep creating! Good things will happen if you keep going. And when it does, build on that moment and do it again.
TV: What inspires you?
Chris: I am inspired by everything! Literally, I draw inspiration from everything that I’m surrounded by. From music, being out, and exercising, scrolling through reels is helpful to me, too. I stay up-to-date with trends and everything else going on.
Maya Man, @mayaontheinternet
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Maya: Everything online is a performance, and I do not believe authenticity can exist online so do not feel guilty about posting what you want. You are constructing the amazing visual vibe you wish to share.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Maya: My hope for the future of the creator community is peace (inner and outer), love, and balance.
Ramon “Reo” Owen, @thisreo
TV: What’s your advice for aspiring creators?
Ramon: Make what you wish existed before considering what the audience wants because if nobody likes it, at least you still do.
TV: What are your hopes for the future of the creator community?
Ramon: My hope for the future of the creator community is to more easily find my tribe and connect with people who “get” why I work so hard to create.
Willonius Hatcher, @kingwillonius
TV: What does your IG community mean to you?
Willonius: My community is a vibrant, innovative, and diverse space where technology, comedy, and creativity intersect. It’s a place where we push boundaries, explore uncharted territories, and inspire one another through laughter, storytelling, and curiosity.
TV: What inspires you?
Willonius: The endless possibilities that arise when creativity meets technology. I draw inspiration from those who dare to break boundaries, who push the limits of what’s possible, and who use their talents to bring new, diverse voices to the forefront of our culture.
