The Australian Influencer Marketing Council (AiMCO) has revealed Australian content creators and podcasters, Daniel Olaniran and Ibrahim Akbar, as the hosts of the 2025 AiMCO Awards.
The awards, which will be held in Sydney on 26 February, following AiMCO’s first-ever summit, will recognise the nation’s top brands, creators, agencies and businesses driving innovation and creativity across the Australian influencer marketing industry.
Comedian Akbar and content creator Olaniran are set to bring their quick wit, charisma, charm and passion to their first-ever hosting gig for the AiMCO Awards—the same formula that’s turned their podcast What’s The Go into a hit.
Akbar (@ibby_a), best known for his hilarious online character Moey DW, has become a social media sensation, with a cult following of more than 400,000 fans across Instagram and TikTok.
From sharing stories of growing up in an ethnic household, to poking fun at society, Akbar’s unique spin on life has resonated with audiences nationally.
Last year, Akbar launched his own food truck while also embarking on his second national stand-up comedy tour.
“I am super excited to be heading back to the stage for my first ever time with AiMCO. It’s a very cool and important opportunity to recognise the national influencer industry that has given me so much. I went from a guy making funny videos online to touring the country doing what I love; stand-up comedy, securing global brand deals and working with Olan on our very own podcast,” commented Akbar on his hosting duties.
“None of this would have been possible without the support of the Australian creator economy, and I am looking forward to celebrating the industry with my peers.”
Olaniran (@olantekkers), known online as OlanTekkers, is one of the internet’s favourite “failed footballers” turned content creator, amassing more than 550,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok.
With his charismatic personality, Olaniran has caught the attention of global brands such as Nike, Foot Locker and Sportsbet. His dynamic content spans a wide range of interests, from gaming and sports to entertainment.
He has become known as the “roaming reporter” for his vox pop-style content, offering fresh takes and engaging perspectives, particularly through his brand partnership work with the UFC and McDonald’s.
“I’m honoured to be sharing the stage with Ibby for the 2025 AiMCO Awards. I’m extremely grateful for organisations like AiMCO that provide a space to celebrate and advocate for Australian content creators. Like Ibby, I’ve turned my content creation into a full-time job, partnering with big brands and speaking on a live panel for TikTok in the past 12 months alone. I’m looking forward to celebrating the industry on February 26,” said Olaniran.
“Every year, we’re lucky to secure top Australian content creators to host our awards, and this year is no different. Ibby and Olan have built careers from their content, establishing substantial online followings and brand partnerships,” commented AiMCO managing director, Patrick Whitnall.
“If you’ve listened to What’s The Go, you’ll know Ibby and Olan work incredibly well together. We’re definitely in for a night full of good humour and laughs.”
The 2025 AiMCO Awards will be held on Thursday, 26 February 26 at the NIDA Parade Theatre in Sydney. More than 100 creators, brands and industry representatives are on the awards shortlist, and this year’s awards include several new categories, including Best Long-Term Ambassador & Partnership, Best Creator-Led Brand & Business, Unsung Hero, Best Standalone Influencer Campaign and Marketing Team of the Year.
This year’s premier event partners are WPP Media and Are Media.
The major event sponsors are Fabulate, HELLO and YouTube, with contributing event partners, Commercial Radio and Audio (CRA), RISER/Theory Crew and Vamp, and audio partner Original Audio.
The event is proudly supported by oOh! and JCDecaux.
