How Gen Z Leaders Behind UTA ZCON Trends 2025
UTA’s ZCON has quickly become a pivotal event for understanding and engaging with Gen Z. Held in October 2025, the event showcased the perspectives and priorities of this influential generation, offering valuable insights for brands and executives seeking to connect with them. The success of ZCON stems from the leadership of Gen Z individuals within UTA, who are driving innovation and shaping the future of entertainment and marketing. This article explores how these young leaders are capitalizing on authenticity and creating a platform for intergenerational collaboration.
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The Rise of UTA Next Gen and ZCON’s Mission
The acquisition of JUV Consulting, a Gen Z-focused company, by UTA’s marketing division marked a strategic move to deepen its understanding and engagement with this demographic. This led to the establishment of UTA Next Gen, a team dedicated to amplifying Gen Z voices and connecting them with brands and opportunities. Ziad Ahmed, head of UTA Next Gen, emphasizes that ZCON is more than just a two-day event; it’s a movement aimed at fostering intergenerational dialogue and driving cultural transformation. The core mission is to create spaces where authenticity thrives and individuals feel empowered to express their true selves.
ZCON’s success relies on creating an environment where “well-seasoned executives” are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new ideas. Olivia Frary, an executive at UTA Next Gen, highlights the importance of authenticity and creating a safe space where attendees can be themselves, whether that involves dancing, singing, or simply making new connections. This emphasis on creating a genuine and welcoming atmosphere differentiates ZCON from other industry events.
Key Themes and Partnerships at ZCON 2025
ZCON 2025 featured a diverse range of sessions and panels exploring critical topics relevant to Gen Z. These included discussions on the evolving landscape of Hollywood, Gen Z’s relationship with beauty, health, and wellness, digital identity, and cultural and social impact. The event attracted a notable roster of talent, including Adam Faze, Hannah Broadhurst, Auli’i Cravalho, and many others, representing a broad spectrum of creative fields.
Strategic partnerships with brands like Cosmopolitan and Coach further enhanced ZCON’s reach and impact. These collaborations provided opportunities for brands to connect with Gen Z in meaningful ways and gain valuable insights into their preferences and values. By aligning with brands that resonate with Gen Z’s values, ZCON reinforces its commitment to authenticity and relevance.
Intergenerational Collaboration and the Future of ZCON
One of the most striking aspects of ZCON is its emphasis on intergenerational collaboration. Ziad Ahmed shared an anecdote about UTA NY chief Julian Jacobs’ enthusiastic response to the event, highlighting the eagerness of established executives to learn from and engage with Gen Z. This willingness to embrace new perspectives is crucial for driving innovation and ensuring that the entertainment and marketing industries remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Looking ahead, plans are already underway for ZCON 2026 and beyond. The goal is to expand the movement beyond the annual event and integrate the principles of intergenerational collaboration and authenticity into all aspects of UTA’s work. By serving as a “supercharged engine” for connecting creative voices and brands to culture, UTA aims to play a leading role in shaping the future of entertainment and marketing.
Conclusion
UTA’s ZCON 2025 demonstrated the power of Gen Z leadership in driving innovation and shaping the future of entertainment and marketing. By prioritizing authenticity, fostering intergenerational collaboration, and addressing key issues relevant to Gen Z, ZCON has established itself as a vital platform for understanding and engaging with this influential generation. The continued success of ZCON will depend on maintaining its commitment to these core principles and expanding its reach to create a more inclusive and dynamic industry.
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