RØDE announced the winners of this year’s Creator of the Year Awards, a global celebration of content creation. Spanning 18 categories, including three major awards and fifteen Spotlight Awards, the initiative recognises and celebrates the world’s most inspiring creators across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and more.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural competition and RØDE’s long history of championing creators, entrants not only have the opportunity to showcase their work on a global stage through the initiative, but are afforded the chance to win a share in over US$200,000 in cash and prizes, supported by leading creative and technology partners.
Max Klymenko has been named Creator of the Year and awarded $25,000 for his exceptional work redefining education for Gen Z. With more than 14 million followers, Max makes complex topics accessible and exciting through thoughtful storytelling. His Career Ladder series, a now iconic street interview format, averages an incredible 12 million views per video and transforms everyday career moments into engaging, insightful content.
“This is insane!” exclaimed Max upon being bestowed the prestigious honour. “For me, I get so much love from the fans but for my team – they really wanted an award. Getting it from RØDE is amazing because that was the first mic system I used on the channel when it was just me. We’ve used RØDE mics throughout the journey, so this feels really special.”
Braxton Haugen has been recognised as Emerging Creator of the Year, earning a $10,000 prize for his deeply personal autobiographical short films. Braxton’s work highlights the people, places and moments that shape his life, offering audiences a heartfelt glimpse into the beauty of everyday experiences. His intimate storytelling connects with global audiences and offers a moving look at the beauty found in shared emotions and universal themes.
“Being named Emerging Creator of the Year is an incredible honour,” said Braxton. “To be recognised for my latest series, World, something I’ve poured everything into, means the world to me. These films are completely self-funded, so this award gives me the stability and support to keep the series going and continue creating at the level I’ve always dreamed of.”
Krystal Duran, a plant educator who blends practical tips with engaging edutainment, has won the People’s Choice Award and $10,000 prizemoney. Her warm, humorous approach makes plant care accessible to all and empowers her audience to grow thriving indoor green spaces. With Krystal’s guidance, every new leaf is a reason to celebrate growth – both in plants and in ourselves.
Alongside the major award winners, the winners for the Spotlight Awards have also been revealed. Each awarded $5000, their work showcases a range of exceptional talent across a spectrum of creative disciplines. This year’s winners include:
- Andy Burkitt — Comedy — @weirdneighbourau
- Mariano Casaca — Filmmaking — @casaca.films
- Kristian Carl Mackay — Gaming — @kristianph
- Will Bowers — Gear & Tech — @WillBowers
- Justin Dickson — Innovation — @flatlandertech
- Shi Qi Ting — Instagram Personality of the Year — @msqiwiie
- Matthew Wilson — Leadership — @quest4thebadge
- Jamiko Manguba — Music — @jmko_music
- Crispy Hut — Niche Excellence — @crispyhut
- Arz Zahreddine — Positive Impact — @thatsarz
- Heath Druzin — Podcasting — @boisestatepublicradio
- Tomas Minc — Sports — @tomasminc
- Shan Rizwan — TikToker Personality of the Year — @shanonthestreet
- Demas Rusli — Travel — @demas
- Tina Yong — YouTube Personality of the Year — @tina_yong
“Creators are at the heart of everything we do,” said RØDE CEO Damien Wilson. “The talent, courage and passion shown by every entrant this year has been incredible. We congratulate the winners, celebrate the finalists and applaud every creator who stepped into the spotlight to share their craft with the world.”
For more information on the RØDE Creator of the Year Awards and to watch the Awards show, visit creatorawards.rode.com.