Anika Wells and Troye Sivan named on Time100 Next rising stars list

Federal communications minister Anika Wells and musician Troye Sivan have been named to Time’s annual list of the world's most influential rising stars, recognizing figures who are actively shaping the future across politics, culture, and technology, as reported by The Guardian on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

According to The Guardian, Anika Wells earned her spot on the list for her extensive work in digital policy. She has overseen the implementation of the under-16s social media ban and is presently spearheading a world-leading digital duty of care framework. Her inclusion places her alongside diverse international figures, including musicians Sombr and PinkPantheress, soccer player Folarin Balogun, US senator Andy Kim, Dutch prime minister Rob Jetten, and Donald Trump’s political adviser James Blair.

Media additions

Former Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard provided the official testimonial for Wells, praising her resilience against powerful corporate forces. Gillard wrote:

"As the world grapples with the extraordinary power of social media and the increasingly pervasive role it plays, Anika Wells has emerged as one of the most significant voices in a growing global movement to reframe the relationship between technology and the well-being of our children. Even in the face of intense opposition from some of the world’s largest tech companies, she remains steadfast … Future generations will look back on her landmark changes as courageous and trail-blazing."

Julia Gillard, Former Prime Minister, via The Guardian

Meanwhile, Australian musician Troye Sivan was also celebrated on the influential rising stars list. Fellow pop icon Kylie Minogue authored his accompanying testimonial, highlighting his unique cultural footprint. Minogue wrote:

"Troye Sivan is a perfect 2020s pop star… Troye doesn’t just make pop music to love. He makes pop music to believe in."

Kylie Minogue, Musician, via The Guardian

The broader Time publication details the extensive creative and editorial process behind the entire 2026 cohort. Led by Dan Macsai and Cate Matthews, editorial teams spent months collaborating globally to identify individuals representing pivotal stories shaping the modern era. Key themes for this year's selection include individuals expanding access to education, pioneers leading the artificial intelligence revolution, leaders confronting immigration challenges, and politicians attempting to forge entirely new styles of governance.

The publication also highlighted the physical craft involved in producing the visual companion pieces for the list. Creative director Jana Frost and photographer Stefano Giuliano constructed intricate paper sets in London and New York City featuring this year's primary cover subjects: singer Raye, comedian Druski, and actor Ashley Padilla. The following table outlines key figures, their respective fields, and notable achievements highlighted in the release:

The publication noted that the inception of the rising stars list in the year 2019 was driven by a fundamental shift in how influence operates. While traditional power structures historically dictated global prominence, the modern landscape allows influence to emerge rapidly from outside established institutions. Additional honorees on the roster include health care worker Marie-Roseline Darnycka Belizaire, who combats infectious diseases under dangerous conditions, and singer Conan Gray, who translates personal trauma into therapeutic art for audiences worldwide.

As these emerging leaders navigate their respective industries, public interest remains high regarding the long-term impact of their policies and creative works.