As the most diverse and socially conscious generation in history, Gen Z is redefining what authentic representation in media looks like—and demanding more from the stories they see on screen.
At this Geena Davis Institute event, industry professionals and rising young actors came together to explore how Gen Z engages with media, challenges outdated narratives, and pushes for more inclusive, accurate portrayals. Grounded in GDI’s latest research and elevated by firsthand perspectives from working actors, the conversation moved beyond assumptions to reveal what this generation truly values.
Designed for creators, executives, and advocates shaping the future of entertainment, the event offered a rare opportunity to hear directly from the voices influencing—and experiencing—the industry in real time.
The evening opened with remarks from CEO Madeline Di Nonno, who framed Gen Z not just as an emerging audience, but as a dominant cultural force—one that is more diverse, more connected, and more values-driven than any generation before it. Backed by research, she highlighted a clear disconnect between what Gen Z expects from media and what the industry is currently delivering.
Following opening remarks from Geena Davis, the panel brought those insights to life through the lived experiences of young actors working across television and film. Structured across three themes—origin stories, career evolution, and cultural impact—the conversation revealed how early exposure to media shapes ambition, and how quickly young performers become aware of the limitations of representation.
Panelists spoke candidly about becoming more selective with roles as they grow in their careers—seeking characters that reflect complexity rather than stereotype. They described developing personal “rule books” to navigate an industry that often struggles to portray marginalized identities with nuance.
As the discussion turned to impact, a consistent theme emerged: representation is not abstract. From inspiring interest in STEM to influencing how young people see themselves and their futures, the roles these actors play carry real weight. At the same time, panelists acknowledged the pressures of growing up in a digital-first world, where social media creates both connection and constant scrutiny.
The evening concluded with an engaged audience Q&A and networking, reinforcing the Institute’s role as a space where research, industry, and lived experience intersect in meaningful ways.
Gen Z is not waiting for the industry to catch up—they are actively redefining it. Their expectations are raising the bar for authenticity, inclusion, and accountability in storytelling.
For media leaders and creators, the message is clear: representation is no longer optional, and getting it right requires listening to the voices shaping culture from within.
The Geena Davis Institute continues to lead this work by bringing together research, industry influence, and lived experience—creating spaces where meaningful change begins.
Geena Davis
Academy Award-winning actor and founder of the Geena Davis Institute, Davis opened the event by reinforcing that representation in media is not just a creative decision—it is a cultural force that shapes how audiences understand themselves and others.
Madeline Di Nonno
CEO of the Geena Davis Institute, Di Nonno grounded the conversation in data, emphasizing that Gen Z’s diversity and digital fluency are fundamentally shifting how content is consumed—and what audiences expect in return.
Mika Abdalla
Known for her lead role in Project Mc², Abdalla highlighted how storytelling can directly influence behavior, sharing how her work has encouraged young girls to see themselves in STEM fields—demonstrating the tangible impact of on-screen representation.
Madison Hu
Star of Bizaardvark, Hu reflected on growing up outside traditional industry pathways and emphasized how Gen Z creators are redefining success through digital platforms, where authenticity often matters more than polish.
Jenna Ortega
Known for Stuck in the Middle and Jane the Virgin, Ortega spoke to the importance of rejecting stereotypical roles and advocating for more nuanced portrayals of Latina characters, underscoring the need for representation that reflects real lived experiences.
Olivia Rodrigo
Actor and performer from Bizaardvark, Rodrigo discussed the dual role of performer and public figure, noting that maintaining a presence on social media has become an extension of the job—requiring intention, boundaries, and self-awareness.
Keith L. Williams
Known for The Last Man on Earth, Williams shared how storytelling can have deeply personal impact, from connecting with audiences facing serious challenges to inspiring young people to imagine futures beyond traditional expectations.
Conversations like this don’t happen everywhere—and they aren’t open to everyone.
Becoming a member of the Geena Davis Institute means access to exclusive events, research-backed insights, and a community working to transform the media landscape.
Join the people shaping the future of storytelling—and be part of the conversations that move the industry forward.
