Our existence is intricately tied to digital environments, affecting everything from the news and entertainment we partake in to the trending videos we circulate. American adolescents dedicate roughly 5 hours each day to social media, while internet users in the U.S. experience an average of over 7 hours online daily. The driving force behind this involvement are the content creators we admire or critique. Around 57% of Gen Z seeks to become content creators, with the creator economy anticipated to hit $480 billion in two years. These creators set trends, sway what we consume and share, and influence our thoughts and connections online.
That’s why Mashable has assembled “The Mashable 101,” a comprehensive list of creators who have impacted the internet over the last year. Meet the creators who keep the web dynamic, from meme-makers to movement initiators, and dive into the complete list to discover your next favorite follow.
From famous names like MrBeast and Kai Cenat to rising stars like Jools Lebron and Reesa Teesa, these creators have been chosen for their capacity to entertain, provoke discussions, educate, inspire, or consistently hold our attention. Some notables may not fit the typical content creator mold but have made considerable contributions, sometimes in surprising ways. Others are the minds behind the platforms and tools that keep us engaged online, like BlueSky and Canva CEOs Jay Graber and Melanie Perkins. Our package features five cover stories highlighting creators such as Taryn Delanie Smith, Tineka “Tini” Younger, Arun Maini, Tefi Pessoa, and Morgan Jay, who are cultivating engaged online communities and redefining today’s digital landscape.
Mashable is in a unique position to compile such a list, as our team is deeply immersed in digital culture, covering everything from the creator economy and internet trends to influencer news and the technology propelling it all. Our list is not solely about metrics; it emphasizes those who have risen above the noise and captured our attention over the past year, through August 2025. This initiative showcases not only the remarkable creators but also underscores what distinguishes Mashable as an exceptional publication.
You might recognize some of these creators, but we aim to introduce fresh voices as well. They have made us laugh, cry, and altered our perspectives. Now, explore the creators who are shaping the present and crafting the future in “The Mashable 101.”
From YouTubers and TikTok sensations to streamers and podcasters, Mashable engages with creators regarding how they established their platforms, the equipment they depend on, and the trends they anticipate. Read more of our creator coverage to uncover the internet’s most thrilling voices.