In a landscape where virality is currency and authenticity is power, the Zeenfluential Awards stands as the roll call of culture-shapers who defined what it means to influence with intention. From rising creatives to industry-shifting icons, this year’s roster spotlights the trailblazers who moved conversations, sparked digital revolutions, and reshaped how Gen Z engages with music, style, food, travel, and storytelling.

Meet the ZEENfluential 2025 Winners!   

ZEENfluential Breakout Artist – Hey June

Hey June! didn’t just break into the scene, they sliced through the noise with precision. The massive traction of “LASIK” on social platforms signaled a new sonic identity that resonated deeply with Gen Z listeners: quick-witted lyricism ,melodic produced, and unmistakably modern. Their sudden climb from emerging indie darling to mainstream must-watch is backed by rising streaming numbers, strong online fan presence, and a cultural moment defined by vulnerability and self-discovery.

ZEENfluential P-Pop Group – SB19 

The P-Pop global icon continues to set the standard. SB19’s Simula at Wakas era cemented their artistic evolution with sharper vocals, tighter choreography, and bolder visuals. “DUNGKA!” also turned into a full-blown internet phenomenon, dominating TikTok dance covers. Their unmatched engagement of their A’TINs and ability to ignite digital wildfire made them the clear frontrunners.

ZEENfluential Music Artist – Cup of Joe 

Cup of Joe defined the year’s emotional soundscape. Their Silakbo delivered a consistent stream of hits that captured Gen Z’s collective stages of grief, while their viral single “Multo” became a yearning anthem. Their two consecutive major tours Silakbo and Stardust not only sold out five nights at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, but also proved their staying power and nationwide appeal. Their presence across charts, playlists, and campuses solidifies their position as the year’s most influential music act.

ZEENfluential Feelmaker – Cathy Garcia-Sampana 

Throughout the years, Direk Cathy has been producing works that compel the audiences’ emotion. But beyond her legacy, she has been continuously touching the feels of the current generation. With her most recent work Meet, Greet, & Goodbye, she has once again harnessed storytelling that captures quick emotional punches about family dynamics and relatable characters. Meanwhile, Hello, Love, Again revived an iconic love story, creating a cinematic moment that transcended nostalgia from the prequel. Her mastery of emotional beats and her grip on what Filipino audiences want to feel reaffirm her as one of the most influential storytellers of the year.

ZEENfluential Scene Stealer – Ang Mutya ng Section E

The popular Wattpad novel-turned-series dominated timelines with its unapologetic energy, but what truly clinched its win was its ability to create moments. Whether it was a particular JayFer moment or a scene of the entire cast that viewers replayed endlessly, AMNSE became the unexpected standout of the year. It turned characters into household names and delivered plotlines that sparked endless discourse online.

ZEENfluential Dynamic Duo – Will Ashley and Bianca De Vera (WillCa)

WillCa’s chemistry has been genuine from inside the PBB house and now in the outside world. The pair radiates an effortless charm that viewers obsess over. Their dynamic that is equal parts playful, emotional, and grounded sparked fan-driven edits, trend cycles, and rising demand for more collaborations. Together, they showed that two aligned energies can amplify influence far beyond what’s possible alone.

ZEENfluential Style Star – Kathryn Bernardo

Beyond her stellar acting performance, Kathryn Bernardo is one of the fashion’s north stars. This year, her style evolution reached a new apex as she embraced bolder silhouettes, clean minimalism, and Gen Z-aligned risk-taking. Every outfit became instant inspiration. Her influence extended beyond aesthetics: she set mood boards, microtrends, and modeled the power of authentic personal style.

ZEENfluential Foodie – Ninong Ry

Ninong Ry’s mix of culinary skill, humor, and “totoo tayong lahat dito” relatability made him the year’s reigning food-content king. His commentary videos, cooking demos, and honest food takes gave audiences not just cravings but comfort. His viral dishes and review episodes generated community discussions and inspired home cooks nationwide. More than a foodie, he became the internet’s kitchen kuya.

ZEENfluential Wonder Wander – Laureen Uy

Laureen Uy turned travel storytelling into an art form. With visually captivating reels, thoughtful itineraries, and a genuine love for local and international cuisine and culture, she transformed destinations into aspirational yet accessible must-visits. Her content encouraged slow travel, mindful tourism, and a fresh appreciation for Southeast Asian gems. She made wandering both aesthetic and intentional.

With results determined through 50% public voting and 50% editorial deliberation, this year’s winners represent the perfect intersection of what the people loved and what the culture needed. It’s no longer just about numbers, but beyond impact, intention, and the conversations you ignite. These winners represent the spectrum of today’s culture-makers that are bold, boundary-pushing, and unafraid to take up space.