Ioana Literat

Ioana Literat is an Associate Professor in the Communication, Media & Learning Technologies Design program at Teachers College, Columbia University. She also co-directs the Media and Social Change Lab (MASCLab), a research collective exploring the transformative potential of media in education and civic life.  

Her work examines the intersections of youth digital culture, participatory media, civic expression and generative creativity online, offering cutting-edge insights into how young people engage in creative, political and social expression through digital platforms. Ioana’s most recent book Not Your Parents’ Politics: Understanding Young People’s Political Expression on Social Media (Oxford University Press, October 2024) examines innovative and unexpected forms of youth political engagement on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.  

Recognised as a thought leader in her field, Ioana is a frequent media commentator, with her expertise featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Newsweek, The Atlantic, CNN and Wired. She has delivered keynote speeches and has been invited for talks at academic, industry and non-profit events, on topics such as youth online creativity, media literacy, civic engagement and the role of technology in shaping education and political participation.  

Known for her engaging and dynamic presentation style, Ioana is a sought-after speaker who combines rigorous research with accessible and inspiring storytelling.  

Beyond keynote speeches, she also has extensive experience facilitating workshops and trainings related to youth and social media (most recently, with media companies, school principals, education policymakers, parent groups and journalists).