Next Generation Collective launches to support young talent's mental health

A new support network for young people growing up in the spotlight launched in New York on 6 October 2026.

The Next Generation Collective is an organisation focused on supporting the mental health of young people in entertainment, according to Variety. Its stated aim is to help young performers and content creators navigate life in the public eye, as reported by People.

The group was founded by Hollywood public relations veteran Lilah Kojoori. It was unveiled at the inaugural summit of Hollywood & Mind in New York City. Hollywood & Mind, led by founder and chief executive Cathy Applefeld Olson, is a founding partner of the Collective.

The founding advisory board brings together actors who started young, family advocates and a creative coalition. It includes Angel Carter Conrad, Logan Henderson, Isabela Merced, Kel Mitchell, Soleil Moon Frye, Carmela Wallace, Hudson Yang, Breanna Yde and Artists for Artists. Henderson is associated with Big Time Rush.

Clinical backing will come from The Kids Mental Health Foundation. The foundation will provide clinical guidance and insights to the Collective. Its executive clinical director is Dr Ariana Hoet, a paediatric psychologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital.

The Collective is intended as a resource for the industry around young talent. That means studios, productions, agencies, managers and platforms that hire, represent and support young performers. The goal is to give those employers and representatives somewhere to turn for advice.

From 2027, the Collective and its partners plan to develop resources, education and support. The programme is aimed at young people themselves and their families. It is also aimed at studios, productions, agencies, managers and platforms.

What makes this stand out is the mix around the table. Performers with experience of early fame sit alongside clinicians and industry organisations. Lived experience and medical expertise are meant to shape the work together.

The launch was covered widely across the trade press. Deadline reported the launch under the headline “Next Generation Collective Launches Initiative To Support The Mental Health Of Young Talent In Hollywood” on 6 October 2026. The Hollywood Reporter also covered the launch of the Collective and its focus on young talent.