TL;DR
- Instagram is introducing a new awards program called “Rings” to honor select creators on its platform.
- The first edition will celebrate 25 creators globally, giving them both a physical ring and digital profile perks like a golden ring around their stories.
- Judges include major figures like Spike Lee, Marc Jacobs, Pat McGrath, KAWS, and Adam Mosseri.
- Winners will be revealed October 16, 2025.
What is Rings — Instagram’s take on the Oscars for creators?
Instagram describes Rings as its new awards program celebrating creators who take creative risks, push boundaries, and tell compelling stories on the platform. It positions itself as a kind of “Oscars for Instagram” — a symbolic recognition of cultural influence and innovation among users.
Rather than cash prizes or sponsorship deals, the reward is stylistic: a physical ring designed by Grace Wales Bonner, and digital badges and customization options inside Instagram itself.
What perks do Rings winners receive — both physical & digital?
Creators selected as Rings recipients will receive:
- A custom physical ring designed by British fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner.
- A digital golden ring around their Instagram Story ring (replacing the usual profile ring gradient) to signal their status.
- The ability to customize profile background color — a feature typically not available to non-awardees.
- A spotlight feed or special section within Instagram to showcase their content more prominently.
- Option to personalize aspects of their “like” button or other small UI elements.
These perks are symbolic and status-based rather than monetary.
Who is judging — a diverse panel across media & culture
The judging panel features a mix of creators, artists, media figures, and Instagram leadership:
- Adam Mosseri (Head of Instagram)
- Eva Chen, Instagram’s head of fashion partnerships
- Spike Lee (filmmaker)
- Marc Jacobs (designer)
- Pat McGrath (makeup artist)
- KAWS (artist) Hollywood Reporter+1
- Others include Yara Shahidi, Ilona Maher, Marques Brownlee and more across creative categories.
These judges collaborated with Instagram’s internal creator teams to sift through billions of users down to the final 25 winners.
How the selection works — criteria & timeline
Instagram says the selection criteria focuses on:
- Originality & creative risk
- Narrative & storytelling
- Cultural influence and resonance
- Ability to push boundaries within the medium of Instagram itself
The program is intended to be annual, seeking to become a recurring highlight in the creator calendar.
Winners for the inaugural Rings will be announced October 16, 2025.
Unlike traditional awards, there is no cash prize attached — the recognition is symbolic and status-based.
