Agenda 2025
Check out our 2025 agenda
The Story of Growing the MLS Amongst a Global Youth Fanbase
Join Rising Ballers and the MLS for a fireside chat into engaging the next generation of sports fans. By embracing a young, digital-native audience, discover how the league is creating a winning formula for both fans and brands alike.
The Story of Growing the MLS Amongst a Global Youth Fanbase
Join Rising Ballers and the MLS for a fireside chat into engaging the next generation of sports fans. By embracing a young, digital-native audience, discover how the league is creating a winning formula for both fans and brands alike.
Join Brendon Shabani, Founder of Rising Ballers and Rawan Eewshah, Senior Director of Social Media at the MLS for a fireside chat into engaging the next generation of sports fans. They will delve into how understanding platforms, trends and culture have helped drive the growth of soccer in the US and turn MLS from a league into a cultural phenomenon. By embracing a young, digital-native audience, discover how the league is creating a winning formula for both fans and brands alike.
From Cringe to Cool: How Campus Commandos Helped Banks Win Over Gen Z
Ads from banks, insurance companies, and alarm systems don't scream cool — or at least in the past. Adam Grant, CEO of Campus Commandos, reveals how his team turned “cringe” into cool, helping some of the most un-relatable brands capture the attention of college students.
Learn how creative campaigns (on shoestring budgets) made financial institutions feel fresh, relevant, and even fun. If your brand is fighting to be heard in a crowded space, this is your blueprint for success.
From Cringe to Cool: How Campus Commandos Helped Banks Win Over Gen Z
Ads from banks, insurance companies, and alarm systems don't scream cool — or at least in the past. Adam Grant, CEO of Campus Commandos, reveals how his team turned “cringe” into cool, helping some of the most un-relatable brands capture the attention of college students.
Learn how creative campaigns (on shoestring budgets) made financial institutions feel fresh, relevant, and even fun. If your brand is fighting to be heard in a crowded space, this is your blueprint for success.
Ads from banks, insurance companies, and alarm systems don't scream cool — or at least in the past. Adam Grant, CEO of Campus Commandos, reveals how his team turned “cringe” into cool, helping some of the most un-relatable brands capture the attention of college students.
A Keynote from Rise at Seven
Rise at Seven's Carrie Rose shares her wisdom on all things social and search. More coming soon!
A Keynote from Rise at Seven
Rise at Seven's Carrie Rose shares her wisdom on all things social and search. More coming soon!
Rise at Seven's Carrie Rose shares her wisdom on all things social and search. More coming soon!
Social Strategy Unwrapped: Balancing Brand and Impact
Meet the masterminds behind social strategy at Sesame Workshop and The Washington Post to delve into what it’s really like to be a unique voice on social media today.
Social Strategy Unwrapped: Balancing Brand and Impact
Meet the masterminds behind social strategy at Sesame Workshop and The Washington Post to delve into what it’s really like to be a unique voice on social media today.
Hear from our panel of brands at the forefront of helping build and sustain brand relevance, while driving engagement for social good. We’re thrilled to be joined by the masterminds behind social strategy at Sesame Workshop and The Washington Post’s in-house brand studio, WP Creative Group, who will delve into what it’s really like to be a unique voice on social media and how they navigate tone of voice, audience engagement, superfans, real-time interactions, and social listening to create content that supports both their brand and mission.
Why we’re excited:
- Dennis Quinn at The Washington Post’s WP Creative Group will delve into how journalism is evolving to engage youth audiences, where social media and influencer strategy fits in and working with advertisers to reach new audiences.
- At Sesame Workshop, Christina Vittas brings the fun and cultural relevance of this beloved brand and shares research-based resources to help the next generation – all while channeling everyone’s favorite 3.5-year-old red, furry monster, Elmo.
Breaking through the noise: winning hearts, minds and wallets at a “multi-stage Gen Z paradise”
Live music is where young people celebrate and express themselves, inspiring more and more brands to invest in the category. Join us for a panel hosted by Elsewhere to learn how three different brands are winning hearts, minds and wallets by elevating the independent music experience for young creatives in the greatest city on Earth.
Breaking through the noise: winning hearts, minds and wallets at a “multi-stage Gen Z paradise”
Live music is where young people celebrate and express themselves, inspiring more and more brands to invest in the category. Join us for a panel hosted by Elsewhere to learn how three different brands are winning hearts, minds and wallets by elevating the independent music experience for young creatives in the greatest city on Earth.
Live music is where young people celebrate and express themselves, inspiring more and more brands to invest in the category. While festivals are a popular solution for live-music marketing, independent venues like Elsewhere — Brooklyn’s “multi-stage Gen Z paradise” — offer a unique alternative to capture the playfulness and discovery of a festival with year-round regularity.
Join us for a panel moderated by Elsewhere’s Ben Weiss to learn how three different brands are winning hearts, minds and wallets by elevating the independent music experience for young creatives in the greatest city on Earth.
Registration & Networking Breakfast
Kick off YMS with a flat white and homemade cinnamon bun before sessions begin. This is your chance to map out your not-to-be-missed sessions, the delegates you must connect with and the exhibitors who could help enhance your killer youth marketing strategy.
Registration & Networking Breakfast
Kick off YMS with a flat white and homemade cinnamon bun before sessions begin. This is your chance to map out your not-to-be-missed sessions, the delegates you must connect with and the exhibitors who could help enhance your killer youth marketing strategy.
Kick off YMS with a flat white and homemade cinnamon bun before sessions begin. This is your chance to map out your not-to-be-missed sessions, the delegates you must connect with and the exhibitors who could help enhance your killer youth marketing strategy.
Youth Trends Report 2025: The Evolution from Z to Zalpha
As the older cohort of Gen Zs approaches their 30s - what will a youth audience look like in 2026? With exclusive insights from Pion’s Youth Trends Report, uncover the transition to a new wave of 16-24s and the tools you need to unlock the values and purchasing power of this digitally fluent hybrid generation.
Youth Trends Report 2025: The Evolution from Z to Zalpha
As the older cohort of Gen Zs approaches their 30s - what will a youth audience look like in 2026? With exclusive insights from Pion’s Youth Trends Report, uncover the transition to a new wave of 16-24s and the tools you need to unlock the values and purchasing power of this digitally fluent hybrid generation.
As the older cohort of Gen Zs approaches their 30s - what will a youth audience look like in 2026? In this session, Pion uncovers the transition to a new wave of 16-24s and the tools you need to unlock the values and purchasing power of this digitally fluent hybrid generation.
Get ready for a high-energy introduction to Gen Zalpha - the in-betweeners that are shaping trends and culture right now. With exclusive insights from Pion’s Youth Trends Report, it’s not just data; it’s a roadmap for your business in finance, retail, beauty and more.
From media to merch: Overtime’s brand expansion into retail
Overtime’s apparel business has exploded and we're joined by CEO Dan Porter for a fireside chat on the strategy behind expanding a media brand into one of the most successful sports ecommerce businesses.
From media to merch: Overtime’s brand expansion into retail
Overtime’s apparel business has exploded and we're joined by CEO Dan Porter for a fireside chat on the strategy behind expanding a media brand into one of the most successful sports ecommerce businesses.
Overtime’s apparel business has exploded. We’re excited to be joined by Dan Porter, Overtime’s CEO for a fireside chat on the strategy behind expanding a media brand into one of the most successful sports ecommerce businesses. From content and community to TikTok Shop, merch drops and brand partnerships, discover the technology and creativity leveraged to create a successful DTC strategy.
Predicting the Global Culture Curve
The ability to predict and harness cultural trends is no longer a competitive advantage, it’s a necessity for brands looking to remain relevant. We’ll bring together top-tier cultural marketers who have found out the secret sauce to using proactive approaches in identifying and acting on emerging trends before they even become a reality.
Predicting the Global Culture Curve
The ability to predict and harness cultural trends is no longer a competitive advantage, it’s a necessity for brands looking to remain relevant. We’ll bring together top-tier cultural marketers who have found out the secret sauce to using proactive approaches in identifying and acting on emerging trends before they even become a reality.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for culture to feel manufactured. The ability to predict and harness cultural trends is no longer a competitive advantage, it’s a necessity for brands looking to remain relevant.
In this panel, we’ll bring together top-tier cultural marketers who have found out the secret sauce to using proactive approaches in identifying and acting on emerging trends before they even become a reality. We’ll discuss the tools and resources that can maximize marketing strategies, how to find the right creators for bespoke campaigns, and what data insights can help predict the beginning of the “cultural bell curve”, rather than trying to chase the moment.
A keynote from Awin
More info coming soon!
A keynote from Awin
More info coming soon!
More info coming soon!
The Transition to Zalpha and What that Means for Retail Brands
Our panel discuss how brands are addressing the changing online shopping habits of Gen Zalpha. This is your not to miss session on all things loyalty, optimisation and the challenges and opportunities for retail and ecomm marketers.
The Transition to Zalpha and What that Means for Retail Brands
Our panel discuss how brands are addressing the changing online shopping habits of Gen Zalpha. This is your not to miss session on all things loyalty, optimisation and the challenges and opportunities for retail and ecomm marketers.
Our panel discuss how brands are addressing the changing online shopping habits of Gen Zalpha. This is your not to miss session on all things loyalty, optimisation and the challenges and opportunities for retail and ecomm marketers.
Why we're excited:
- Jessica has shaped impactful merchandising strategies at top retailers like Macy’s, Bed Bath & Beyond, and now, IPSY - one of the most followed beauty brands on TikTok. She will share insights into all things subscription services, growth and customer loyalty.
- Andie Swim recently shifted to grow their brand awareness with younger audiences. Head of Marketing, Morgan will talk about aspirational purchases amongst Gen Z, UGC via TikTok and expanding the brand’s affiliate network.
- Trisha has bootstrapped responsible jewelry brand Maison Miru from start to scale. She will share how she balances a commitment to sustainability with expanding the brand, driving growth via social commerce.
- Ray brings his wealth of SEO and marketing knowledge to share the secret ingredients that connect brands with their audiences - and reveals the key to organic growth for ecomm and retail brands.
Behind the Screens: The Not-So-Secret Digital Lives of Gen Z
dcdx takes us on a never-before seen journey through the platforms, the digital habits and the behaviors of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, through the largest mobile screen time study ever performed.
Behind the Screens: The Not-So-Secret Digital Lives of Gen Z
dcdx takes us on a never-before seen journey through the platforms, the digital habits and the behaviors of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, through the largest mobile screen time study ever performed.
dcdx takes us on a never-before seen journey through the platforms, the digital habits and the behaviors of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, through the largest mobile screen time study ever performed.
What to expect:
- The top 10 apps Gen Z'ers are using, with YoY change, with age and gender differences
- The newest and hottest digital channels and platforms Gen Z'ers are spending time in 2025
- Boom and bust categories, from AI tools to dating apps to gaming, streaming and more
Morning Coffee & Networking Break
Grab a coffee, chat to fellow delegates and meet the industry in our exhibition hall.
Morning Coffee & Networking Break
Grab a coffee, chat to fellow delegates and meet the industry in our exhibition hall.
Grab a coffee, chat to fellow delegates and meet the industry in our exhibition hall.
Live, Laugh, Lower Emissions: Advocacy in the Creator Age
Climate change isn’t funny, but comedy creators sure are! Learn how micro-video creators are a key part of the growing digital movement helping to fight the climate crisis with Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE).
Live, Laugh, Lower Emissions: Advocacy in the Creator Age
Climate change isn’t funny, but comedy creators sure are! Learn how micro-video creators are a key part of the growing digital movement helping to fight the climate crisis with Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE).
Climate change isn’t funny, but comedy creators sure are! Want to learn how microvideo creators are a key part of the growing digital movement helping to fight the climate crisis?
Join Breena Cocco, Director of Creator Marketing, and Allie Cohen, Senior Creator Marketing Manager, from Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE) to discuss the novel strategy of using Gen Z comedy content creators to educate audiences on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts. We’ll touch on how we use for-profit organic and paid marketing tactics to break down complex climate, clean energy and civic engagement issues and policies through our campaigns.
A Keynote from The Sound
More info coming soon!
A Keynote from The Sound
More info coming soon!
More info coming soon!
Lunch: YMS Food Festival
Lunch: YMS Food Festival
It's time for lunch!
Brands vs Parents of Alphas: Open Mic Session
Are you ready to hear the truth from the parents raising Gen Alpha and the brands trying to reach this next generation?
Brands vs Parents of Alphas: Open Mic Session
Are you ready to hear the truth from the parents raising Gen Alpha and the brands trying to reach this next generation?
Are you ready to hear the truth from the parents raising Gen Alpha and the brands trying to reach this next generation?
A Keynote from Spotify's Global Thought Leadership Lead
This session will be hosted by Jenny Haggard, Global Thought Leadership Lead at Spotify. More info coming soon!
A Keynote from Spotify's Global Thought Leadership Lead
This session will be hosted by Jenny Haggard, Global Thought Leadership Lead at Spotify. More info coming soon!
This session will be hosted by Jenny Haggard, Global Thought Leadership Lead at Spotify. More info coming soon!
Changing the Fate of Generations to Come
Unlock the secrets to connecting with young audiences in ways that truly matter. In this unmissable conversation, we’re bringing together Troy Armour, the founder of Junk Kouture which is the world’s largest platform empowering creative teens through sustainable fashion, and 21-year-old author Caterina Mendez, a rising voice making life’s toughest lessons accessible for youth. Together, they’ll tackle big topics—like self-worth, self-acceptance, and the priceless elements that shape loyalty.
Expect a deep dive into what it takes to ignite generational change, not only to gain a competitive edge but to transform lives through real impact. Whether you're a brand leader or marketer, this talk promises to leave you inspired, equipped with actionable insights, and ready to make a lasting difference. Join us and discover how brands can be more than logos—they can be forces of change.
Changing the Fate of Generations to Come
Unlock the secrets to connecting with young audiences in ways that truly matter. In this unmissable conversation, we’re bringing together Troy Armour, the founder of Junk Kouture which is the world’s largest platform empowering creative teens through sustainable fashion, and 21-year-old author Caterina Mendez, a rising voice making life’s toughest lessons accessible for youth. Together, they’ll tackle big topics—like self-worth, self-acceptance, and the priceless elements that shape loyalty.
Expect a deep dive into what it takes to ignite generational change, not only to gain a competitive edge but to transform lives through real impact. Whether you're a brand leader or marketer, this talk promises to leave you inspired, equipped with actionable insights, and ready to make a lasting difference. Join us and discover how brands can be more than logos—they can be forces of change.
Unlock the secrets to connecting with young audiences in ways that truly matter with Junk Kouture's Troy Armour and 21-year-old author Caterina Mendez, a rising voice making life’s toughest lessons accessible for youth.
How Lenovo is tapping creators to build a stronger consumer brand
As a leader in consumer electronics, Lenovo's Jessica Tomlinson will share how creator campaigns have helped the eComm side of the brand forge real connections with different consumer segments - from students to gamers and everyone in between.
How Lenovo is tapping creators to build a stronger consumer brand
As a leader in consumer electronics, Lenovo's Jessica Tomlinson will share how creator campaigns have helped the eComm side of the brand forge real connections with different consumer segments - from students to gamers and everyone in between.
As a leader in consumer electronics, Lenovo's Jessica Tomlinson will share how creator campaigns have helped the eComm side of the brand forge real connections with different consumer segments - from students to gamers and everyone in between.
She will discuss how student and gamer influencer programs, live shopping events and getting creative with creator campaigns have helped the brand showcase how tech products fit into the day to day lives of young people - and how they are navigating pre-teen gamers and what’s coming next with Alpha.
A Keynote from Acceleration Partners
A Keynote from Acceleration Partners
More info coming soon!
Why sports are trailblazing in their approach to creator partnerships
Join our experts who are at the intersection of influencer marketing and sports. They will discuss the power of sports partnerships, how athletes are moving from performers to creators and how your brand can tap in.
Why sports are trailblazing in their approach to creator partnerships
Join our experts who are at the intersection of influencer marketing and sports. They will discuss the power of sports partnerships, how athletes are moving from performers to creators and how your brand can tap in.
Join our experts who are at the intersection of influencer marketing and sports. They will discuss the power of sports partnerships, how athletes are moving from performers to creators and how your brand can tap in.
Deep diving into what you can learn from the creator-athlete marketing space, we’ll cover:
- How to make informed decisions about your creator strategy
- Navigating the athlete-creator ecosystem and finding hidden gem athlete influencers that can amplify your brand
- Working smarter not harder to build long term relationships and success with sports partnerships
Gen Zalpha: Ask Us Anything
Join us for an interactive session with a panel of candid young individuals from Gen Zalpha. This live session offers a unique opportunity to seek the unfiltered opinions of young people on a wide range of topics. Get ready to put them in the spotlight as they share their perspectives on everything from technology and social media to education and their hopes and fears for the future. Don't miss this chance to connect with the voices of the next generation. The floor is yours!
Gen Zalpha: Ask Us Anything
Join us for an interactive session with a panel of candid young individuals from Gen Zalpha. This live session offers a unique opportunity to seek the unfiltered opinions of young people on a wide range of topics. Get ready to put them in the spotlight as they share their perspectives on everything from technology and social media to education and their hopes and fears for the future. Don't miss this chance to connect with the voices of the next generation. The floor is yours!
A not to be missed interactive session with a panel of candid young individuals from Gen Zalpha. This live session offers a unique opportunity to seek the unfiltered opinions of young people on a wide range of topics. The floor is yours!
The YMS NYC Speak Easy
The conversations don't stop when the main event wraps up - join the YMS community at Pion's Speak Easy in the networking area. There will be music and entertainment, cocktails or sober curious alternatives.
The YMS NYC Speak Easy
The conversations don't stop when the main event wraps up - join the YMS community at Pion's Speak Easy in the networking area. There will be music and entertainment, cocktails or sober curious alternatives.
The conversations don't stop when the main event wraps up - join the YMS community at Pion's Speak Easy in the networking area. There will be music and entertainment, cocktails or sober curious alternatives.
