GRAMMY U, the Recording Academy’s program for music professionals and creatives aged 18 to 29, has launched its 20th year of programming. As GU celebrates this milestone anniversary, it welcomes the 2025-26 GRAMMY U Representative class.
These 15 individuals represent the next generation of the music industry, dedicated to pursuing their education while acting as leaders in their communities. Serving up to three consecutive years, each GRAMMY U Representative works closely with their local Chapter, as well as the national GRAMMY U team, to support membership initiatives and diverse programs for a growing membership of more than 7,500 worldwide.
This past year, the GRAMMY U Reps supported nearly 100 GRAMMY U Chapter events nationwide, onboarded over 2,000 new members, and participated in a week-long GRAMMY Week experience like never before. Ahead of this milestone year, this GRAMMY U class is ready to make an even greater impact and deliver unforgettable experiences for members across the country. Continue reading to get to know the 2025-26 GRAMMY U Representatives.
Johannes Escobar | Atlanta
Johannes is studying at Clark Atlanta University as a mass media arts major. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Representative.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I look forward to connecting Atlanta’s emerging executives, artists, and aspiring music professionals with the resources, relationships, and opportunities they need to thrive. I’m also looking forward to representing my Latino heritage and first generation community. It’s an honor to help break barriers, create pathways, and ensure more of us not only have a seat at the table, but the power to shape it.
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
Attending the 67th GRAMMY Awards last February has been my favorite GRAMMY U memory by far! Being in the room alongside last year’s GRAMMY U Representatives was incredibly inspiring and made my goal of seeing my artist win a GRAMMY feel more achievable than ever.
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream career in the music industry is to become a leading artist manager, following in the footsteps of leaders like Cortez Bryant, and eventually evolve into a pioneering music entrepreneur and label founder like Larry Jackson. I love the art of music, the business behind it, and the future technological advances shaping the industry.
Connect with Johannes:
Email: grammyu.atlanta@grammy.com
IG: @forgeezy
Abigail Ng | Chicago
Abigail is studying at the University of Chicago as a double major in economics and history. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I am the most excited to meet like-minded music lovers from across the Midwest! What an honor to be able to gather such passionate people around the city for something so great.
Who is a figure in the music industry that inspires your work, or you look up to?
I am very inspired by Laufey! Without a doubt, her years of hard work in making music cannot be unseen. What is even more impressive is Laufey's dedication to authenticity in her branding, and in the way she writes songs.
If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?
It would definitely be Dolly Parton. I would love to know about the behind-the-scenes of how she navigates change — she has been such an influential figure regardless of the platform or trend of music.
Connect with Abigail:
Email: grammyu.chicago@grammy.com
IG: @abigailhng
Adyna Silverberg | Florida
Adyna is studying at the University of Miami as a music industry major. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I am really looking forward to celebrating GRAMMY U's 20th anniversary as a GRAMMY U Representative! GRAMMY U has given me endless opportunities, I can't wait to help create meaningful experiences for others and contribute to a year that celebrates the legacy and future of GRAMMY U!
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
I love EDM, pop, R&B, and Rock but if I had to choose one I would say pop music. I love this genre because it's modern and fresh, and no matter whether it's a ballad or a banger, I will always enjoy it!
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
Having a knack for working with creative-minded people and a passion for music, community, and storytelling, my dream career in the music industry is anything to do with artist communications. Whether it's artist relations, development, management or A&R, I love helping artists bring their visions to life and connect with their audience.
Connect with Adyna:
Email: grammyu.florida@grammy.com
IG: @adynablair
Julia Kirsh | Los Angeles
Julia is studying at the University of Southern California as a music industry major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
As a GRAMMY U Representative, I'm most looking forward to fostering a stronger sense of community among my peers and creating opportunities for us to learn directly from music industry professionals. I’m excited to help organize events that not only connect us, but also provide valuable insights that will help us build our careers.
Who is a figure in the music industry that inspires your work, or you look up to?
Harry Styles has been my inspiration since 2013, when I first saw One Direction perform at the ripe age of 8. Over the years, I have been inspired by not only his music, but also how he carries himself in the industry. He has shown me how powerful music can be in creating connection, comfort, and community.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
While I listen to a little bit of everything, I’ve always been especially drawn to indie folk pop. Artists like Noah Kahan, Caamp, and the 502’s are a constant in my playlists, and their sound is something I never get tired of.
Connect with Julia:
Email: grammyu.la@grammy.com
IG: @julialkirsh
Cate Landis | Memphis
Cate is studying at Tulane University as a communications and history major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
This year, I’m really looking forward to connecting with not only my fellow Representatives, but helping to engage with and create more opportunities for members within the Memphis Chapter and on the national level.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
I listen to so many different genres, but right now, my favorite genre is hip-hop, and more specifically jazz rap. I grew up listening to the Souls of Mischief, A Tribe Called Quest, and Guru to name a few, and I’ve always admired the genre for its versatility.
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
While I’m still exploring where my career path may lead me in the music industry, I’ve always been passionate about events, touring, and artist development. Seeing an artist's vision come to life by telling their story through lyrics, and bringing their music to life on stage has always been so exciting to me.
Connect with Cate:
Email: grammyu.memphis@grammy.com
IG: @catelandis
Cameron King | Nashville
Cameron is studying at Belmont University as a media and entertainment industry major. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I am most looking forward to connecting with the members of the Nashville Chapter. I want to be able to give back to the program that has done so much for me. This year is going to be great!
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory was volunteering at my first event in Nashville, the Recording Academy Nashville Chapter nominee celebration. It was such a fun and exciting experience, and I really appreciated the trust that was placed in me. I even got to meet my first celebrity in Nashville, which made the night unforgettable.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
I can’t pick just one, I love both pop and K-Pop. The energy, beats, and lyrics from these genres have shaped who I am and brought me so much joy. I also really admire the marketing, merchandising, and creative direction that goes into both.
Connect with Cameron:
Email: grammyu.nashville@grammy.com
IG: @camking._
Olivia Ginzburg | New York
Olivia is studying at New York University as a music business major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I am really looking forward to planning amazing programming throughout NYC to maximize outreach to as many members as possible. I'm also excited to work with my fellow GRAMMY U Reps across the country to create new opportunities for our members!
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
My favorite genres of music are pop and pop/rock. I love listening to fast-paced music because it's the best way for me to get into a productive mood, and I've always felt that these genres can be very versatile. I try to listen to music from all decades; I'm always down to listen to something new!
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream is to become an entertainment lawyer who specializes in music publishing because it allows me to combine my passion for music and protecting artists' intellectual property. I would hope to specifically work with smaller, up and coming artists so they can ensure their work is protected from the early stages of their career.
Connect with Olivia:
Email: grammyu.ny@grammy.com
IG: @oliviaginzburg
Jenia Viles | Pacific Northwest
Jenia is studying at Seattle University as a business management major. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
Who is a figure in the music industry that inspires your work, or you look up to?
I really look up to Leon Thomas! Not only is he a talented vocalist, but he’s also a skilled producer and songwriter behind many of the songs I listen to every day. I admire his ability to push creative boundaries, whether in collaboration or in his solo projects, and his overall dedication to his craft.
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory so far would have to be our opportunity to work the red carpet before the 67th GRAMMY Awards. I got to greet some legends such as Babyface and some of my favorite artists including Noah Kahan, Tori Kelly, and Tems. It was genuinely the most phenomenal collective of moments I've ever experienced, and I'm beyond grateful that Reps were given the privilege to do this at last year's Awards.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
I listen to most music, but my most favorite genre will always have to be soul. I come from a musical family, so I grew up singing and listening to many of the classic soul songs ranging from "A Song For You" by Donny Hathaway to "Greatest Love Of All" by Whitney Houston! I have my family to thank for my diverse music taste, and I'll always be grateful that they introduced me to soul music.
Connect with Jenia:
Email: grammyu.pnw@grammy.com
IG: @niadfv
Jada Bromberg | Philadelphia
Jada is studying at Temple University as a communication studies and audio & live entertainment. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
This year, I’m most excited to organize an event for GRAMMY U members in the Philadelphia Chapter that highlights their musicianship through a series of live performances. My goal is to create a space where members can connect through their shared passion for music and showcase their talents.
Who is a figure in the music industry that inspires your work, or you look up to?
Much of my inspiration comes from singer/songwriters Anson Seabra and JP Saxe, whose raw and emotional lyrics deeply resonate with me. I’ve been playing piano since I was five, and it was the first instrument I used to start composing music. Both artists have been a source of comfort and strength, helping me through some of my most difficult moments.
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream career in the music industry is to tour globally as a singer/songwriter with the support of a dedicated team, using my music and performances to advocate for mental health. In between tours, I would consistently write, record, and release new songs.
Connect with Jada:
Email: grammyu.philly@grammy.com
IG: @jadareesemusic
Braunte Beeks | San Francisco
Braunte is studying at California State University Sacramento as a communication studies major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I'm most looking forward to our in person events like SoundChecks, where I can gain hands-on experience and help create meaningful moments for our GRAMMY U members. I'm also excited to connect with artists, ask thoughtful questions, and discover new perspectives I may not have encountered before.
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream career in the music industry is to be a music artist. I have been producing, songwriting, and recording my own music for the past few years, and no matter what other paths I explore, I always feel called to create. Making music is more than a passion; it is a constant source of energy and purpose that I cannot ignore.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
My favorite genre of music is everything, but if I had to choose, I’d say alternative R&B. I love the creativity that goes into bending R&B and blending it with other genres, like artists such as Frank Ocean, SZA, FKA Twigs, Solange, and so many more.
Connect with Braunte:
Email: grammyu.sf@grammy.com
IG: @braunte
Mykel Merritt | Texas
Mykel is studying at The University of Texas as a public relations major. This is his first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I’m most excited to help GRAMMY U members find clarity and confidence in their career paths. Whether it’s through our events or the mentorship program, I can’t wait to pour into the next generation of music professionals and continue supporting GRAMMY U’s mission of building real bridges between young music professionals and the music industry.
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory so far was volunteering at the Texas Chapter Block Party and creating short-form content for the GRAMMY U socials. Being trusted to film an ambassador spotlight reel was such a full-circle moment, especially now stepping into the role of Texas Chapter Representative.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
Pop is definitely my favorite genre because of how versatile and expressive it is. Artists like Ariana Grande, Beyoncé and Rihanna have created music that makes me want to cry, dance, and reflect all in the same album. There’s something powerful about music that can match whatever emotion I’m feeling while still being fun and energizing.
Connect with Mykel:
Email: grammyu.texas@grammy.com
IG: @mykeljmerritt
Lilah Sahud| Washington D.C.
Lilah is studying at American University as a business entertainment major. This is her first year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I look forward to sharing what I love about music and working with other students who share the same passion. I can’t wait to have the chance to contribute to the events and experiences I myself experienced not long ago. I hope to work hard in creating as memorable and inspiring experiences as others have done for me.
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory so far?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory so far has to be attending the GRAMMY U Conference in NYC. It was a life-changing opportunity to meet other students and learn more about how the music industry works from different perspectives. Attending the conference connected me with new friends and inspired me to apply for the Rep position.
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream career in the music industry would be an artist manager. I have always had much appreciation for the managers who help coordinate, organize, and plan all things related to the talent. Working closely with the creatives, but from the business side, is right where I would want to be in the industry.
Connect with Lilah:
Email: grammyu.dc@grammy.com
IG: @lilahr0se
Noah Guidos | National Digital Marketing
Noah is studying at Belmont University as an audio engineering major. This is his second year as part of the GRAMMY U national team.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
As my role last year did not include much Rep interaction in day-to-day responsibilities, I'm super excited to work closely with all the Reps much more frequently this year, especially through the Digital Marketing Committee! Additionally, leading the creative and marketing side of the 20th year anniversary campaign is such an honor and I'm excited to dig up all the gems we'll be highlighting from the past two decades!
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
GRAMMY Week last year was an experience I will never forget. It was my first time in L.A., and being in such an incredible environment in person with all the Reps was so fulfilling and joyful!
If you could plan a GRAMMY U event centered around any music creator or professional, who would it be and why?
I would create an event centered around Illangelo. He has produced some of my favorite songs of all time and his ways of thinking about music production fascinate me. I look up to him a lot as a fellow producer of similar styles, and could listen to him talk about production for hours!
Connect with Noah:
Email: grammyu.marketing@grammy.com
IG: @noahstrykes
Joslyn Bowman | National Membership
Joslyn is studying at The University of Southern California as a music industry major. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
What are you most looking forward to this year as a GRAMMY U Representative?
I'm most looking forward to connecting with GRAMMY U members! Through the events we put on throughout the year, both virtual and in-person, there is never a dull moment. I cannot wait to continue meeting so many incredible individuals who have the most wonderful stories to tell.
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory so far was this year's GRAMMY U Conference in New York! I loved to see members network with one another, the different panels we had, and building long-lasting relationships with my fellow Reps.
What is your favorite genre of music and why?
Lately, I have been listening to a lot of folk and country music. I love the way both genres tell stories through intricate lyricism and the simplicity of the music itself. The stories that are told through some of my favorite artists, such as Noah Kahan and Zach Bryan, have a way of connecting with people that makes their music feel incredibly special to me.
Connect with Joslyn:
Email: grammyu.membership@grammy.com
IG: @joslynnleila
Ily Aguilar | National Projects
Ily is studying at Texas State University as a public relations major. This is her second year as a GRAMMY U Rep.
Who is a figure in the music industry that inspires your work, or you look up to?
A figure in the music industry that I look up to is Carla Jara! Her passion for social media and the Recording Academy shines through in every piece of content she creates. Her work constantly inspires me, and I strive to create content that carries the same impact and dedication!
What has been your favorite GRAMMY U memory?
My favorite GRAMMY U memory was working the red carpet at the 67th GRAMMY Awards and photobombing everyone’s Glambots! That is a moment that will live forever on social media and I love looking back and remembering the excitement of that day!
What is your dream career in the music industry and why?
My dream career in the music industry is to work in live event management, hosting shows and booking bands. I love the energy of an event day and watching all of the preparation and hard work come to life!
Connect with Ily:
Email: grammyu.projects@grammy.com
IG: @ily.aguilar