Rising Star (industry) 2026 Supported by Kickers

The Sponsor

Kickers has been an ever-present part of British youth culture for over 50 years. Building on its long-standing connection to music and culture, the brand continues to make a positive impact on young people by creating products that help them express themselves, both in and out of the classroom.

Following the Kick Hi’s 50th anniversary in 2025, Kickers continues to champion grassroots culture through its partnerships with Save Our Scene and Youth Music.

More than a shoe, the Kickers have always been a statement - the shoe you never grow out of.

The Nominees

Honey Keenan (She/Her)

NextGen Fund, Scotland

Honey Keenan is the founder of Hive Five Management, an independent artist management company she launched during lockdown. Since then, she has helped artists secure major brand partnerships, funding and media opportunities, while leading impactful release campaigns and live shows. Her work includes a 6-million-view single campaign, collaborations with brands including PUMA and Irn-Bru, and fundraising events for MND Scotland. She is also an alumna of Universal Music Publishing Group's Amplify U programme.

Jed Wright (he/him)

Youth Music NextGen Fund, South East

Jed Wright is a grassroots music promoter and community builder dedicated to creating opportunities for emerging artists. He founded Basics, a multidisciplinary arts organisation that has sold out 19 events and built a network of more than 50 creatives. Alongside running Sofar Sounds Brighton, he curates projects across the city, supports grassroots venues and festivals, and champions the power of live music to bring people together. His work has earned recognition from PRS Foundation, Lighthouse and Root 73.

Rianne Lewis (she/her)

Youth Music NextGen Fund, London

Rianne Lewis is a music entrepreneur, producer and founder of RUN IT, a platform creating opportunities for emerging artists through live events, mentoring and industry partnerships. Over the past 8 years, she has delivered more than 50 events across the UK and internationally, supported over 500 young creatives, and built partnerships with organisations including Red Bull, BBC Radio and PRS Foundation.