LA-based Filipina artist Kim Cruz makes it to Forbes 30 Under 30 2026 list
Kim Cruz, a Filipina artist based in Los Angeles, is part of the Forbes "30 Under 30" Class of 2026.
The Pinay made it to the prestigious list's Art & Style category for her work for Kalma Art Foundation—a non-profit organization that hosts workshops in remote locations in the Philippines, provides art therapy for children rescued from human trafficking, and sponsors shelters in the country—where a portion of her art sales also goes.
According to the US magazine, her drawings and paintings "often focus on the female figure." Her work has been exhibited from Barcelona to Miami.
In an Instagram post, Cruz thanked Forbes for the recognition.
"Still so much to learn but after 4 years of pursuing my dreams in the art world and being based in three different continents, I can proudly say I am becoming who I envision to be more and more every day,” she wrote.
Cruz said she started Kalma Art Foundation a couple of years ago "out of my love for art and as a way to stay connected to my roots."
"Forever thankful for the support that we have received so far. Excited for what’s ahead," she added.
Forbes 30 Under 30 "showcases 600 of the most talented and influential individuals under [the age of] 30 shaping business and culture," according to its website.
"To discover the top leaders across 20 industries, we partner with list alumni, industry professionals, and the public. Our open nominations portal brings in, on average, more than 20,000 nominations across our U.S., Asia, and Europe lists."
Among the factors considered by Forbes reporters and an independent panel include funding, revenue, social impact, scale, inventiveness, and potential.
Previous Filipino personalities that made it to the list include racecar driver Bianca Bustamante and P-pop group BINI, among others.
