National Geographic announced its inaugural “Creator Cohort” campaign, bringing together eight digital-first nonfiction content creators whose audiences span Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The six-month program connects the brand, which claims more than 800 million social media followers, with emerging creators working across conservation, wildlife photography, science, history, and travel.

Cohort members will participate in brand events tied to tentpole moments, including National Geographic’s “Earth Month” initiative, the upcoming documentary “Secrets of the Bees” from James Cameron’s “Secrets Of” franchise, and “Lion.” Creators will also have the opportunity to travel with National Geographic Expeditions through partnerships with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Journeys, offered in collaboration with G Adventures.

Upon completing the six-month program, creators become eligible for ongoing opportunities with National Geographic, including marketing and programming activations across platforms. Blue Hour Studios, a content and creator studio, is executing the campaign in partnership with National Geographic’s social media team.

Creator Roster

The eight inaugural cohort members span four content verticals. 

In nature and wildlife, the program includes conservationist Maya Higa, founder of Alveus Sanctuary, and Canadian environmental educator Macaila Wagner. 

The science category features science communicator Maynard Okereke, known as Hip Hop M.D., and geoscience creator Ethan Penner, whose series “What’s Inside That Rock?” has built a following across TikTok and Instagram. 

Travel and adventure creators include Jordan Kahana, Tanya Badillo, and Paige Tingey. Archaeologist and Temple University instructor Dr. Tenninger Kellenbarger, known as Dirt Diaries, represents the history vertical.

Executive Perspective

“The way audiences discover and connect with nonfiction storytelling continues to evolve,” said Tom McDonald, executive vice president of Content at National Geographic. “Supporting the next generation of voices in science, exploration, and adventure keeps the genre ambitious and relevant, bringing a new generation of audiences into the Nat Geo ecosystem.”

Aiman Ahmed, VP of Social Media, noted the program’s dual focus on audience expansion and creator development. “Working alongside these eight exceptional creators is an exciting opportunity to extend the reach of Nat Geo storytelling, connect with new audiences, and invest in the next generation of influential nonfiction storytellers.”

The Creator Cohort is led by Ahmed and Danny Clemens, senior manager of Social Media at National Geographic.