Filipina artist makes Forbes 30 Under 30 2026 list

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December 3, 2025 | 10:45am

MANILA, Philippines — Los Angeles-based Filipina artist Kimberly Ann Cruz was named by Forbes Magazine as part of its annual "30 Under 30" list for 2026.

The American annual list selects 30 notable people under 30 years old across 20 sectors and industries, making for a total of 600 selections each year.

Kim was placed in the Art & Style category, recognized for her paintings focusing on the female figure and the non-profit organization she founded the Kalma Art Foundation.

The organization hosts workshops in remote Philippines locations to provide art supplies, classes and scholarships for children, provides art therapy for children rescued from human trafficking and sponsors Philippine shelters.

A percentage of all of the 27-year-old Kim's own art sales go to the Kalma Art Foundation.

The artist shared in an Instagram post that she started the foundation out of her love of art and as a way to stay connected to her roots.

"Still so much to learn but after 4 years of pursuing my dreams in the art world and being based in 3 different continents," Kim also said. "I can proudly say I am becoming who I envision to be more and more everyday."

In an Instagram story, Kim added it was honor to be included in Forbes' list and that "the little girl in her would be so proud she pursued her dreams and took some risks."

Among those who offered congratulory messages for Kim were Nadine Lustre, Sarah Lahbati, and Black Eyed Peas member apl.de.ap.

Also making this year's US list under the Sports category was Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen who earlier this year officially tied the knot with Oscar-nominated Filipino-American actress Hailee Steinfeld.

More notables names can be found in the Hollywood & Entertainment category like Oscar winner Mikey Madison, "Moana" voice actress Aul'i Cravalho, "The Summer I Turned Pretty" star Lola Tung, "Wednesday" actress Emma Myers, and rising stars Miles Caton, Marissa Bode, Chase Infiniti, and Sophie Thatcher.

The Music category meanwhile has the likes of Doechii, Benson Boone, Alex Warren, Rebecca Black, UMI, and Audrey Nuna who contributed to "Golden" from "KPop Demon Hunters."

Last year, the Forbes "30 Under 30" list featured Filipina-American beauty queen Marizza Delgado and Filipino-Canadian racing driver Samantha Tan.

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