10 Aug 25 TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION DOMINATING 2026 CULTURE
Diversity and inclusion are now measurable priorities across media, marketing, and brand partnerships, and influencers are driving visible change across industries. In 2026, brands are allocating larger budgets to creators from underrepresented communities, with diversity benchmarks tied directly to campaign performance metrics. Influencers now use analytics dashboards to track audience demographics, ensuring racial, gender, and LGBTQ+ representation reflects real communities rather than surface-level optics. From fashion and beauty to sports and education, diverse voices are influencing buying behavior, shaping culture, and setting new standards for accountability.
These influencers are building long-term equity, not just engagement. They address mental health, body positivity, disability advocacy, and pay transparency while negotiating contracts that include inclusive casting and fair representation clauses. Platforms are introducing creator funds dedicated to marginalized voices, increasing visibility at scale. As algorithms prioritize authentic community engagement in 2026, representation is directly tied to reach and revenue growth. Amra and Elma curates the following list of the top 25 influencers who have made diversity central to their platforms, influencing millions and reshaping industry standards.
25 TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION REDEFINING POWER IN 2026
25 TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION SHATTERING INDUSTRY BARRIERS IN 2026 (Quick View)
Diverse Representation Creator Rankings 2026
Every Voice. Every Story. Culture Changed Forever.25 Top Influencers for Diverse Representation Dominating 2026
The Creators Rewriting Who Gets to Be Seen, Heard, and Celebrated
Ranked by primary platform followers · 2026 counts · Estimated net worth included
25 TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION DRIVING BILLION-DOLLAR IMPACT IN 2026
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #1. Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez is a globally recognized superstar, known for her work in music, film, and philanthropy. With over 550 million followers across platforms, she leverages her immense reach to advocate for mental health awareness and other social causes. Through her beauty brand Rare Beauty, she promotes inclusivity in the beauty industry. Selena actively uses her platform to discuss her struggles with mental health, helping to reduce stigma around it. She is also dedicated to empowering young people to live authentically. Her advocacy for diverse representation continues to inspire millions worldwide.
In 2026, Selena expanded Rare Beauty with a 48-shade foundation relaunch tied to a $10 million Rare Impact Fund commitment and released a new studio album that debuted at #1 in over 20 countries within its first week.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #2. Kylie Jenner
Kylie Jenner is a leading figure in beauty, fashion, and entrepreneurship with over 550 million followers. Known for founding Kylie Cosmetics, she has reshaped the beauty industry with a focus on diversity and inclusivity. While often in the spotlight for her personal life, Kylie has used her platform to empower women of all backgrounds. Her advocacy for body positivity and confidence resonates with her vast global audience. She is also a vocal supporter of various charitable causes. Kylie’s influence extends beyond beauty, shaping pop culture trends and social media standards.
In 2026, Kylie launched a global inclusive shade expansion of Kylie Cosmetics across 35 new markets and secured a multi-year retail partnership with Sephora generating eight-figure quarterly sell-through.
@kyliejennerlove a good draft♬ original sound – Kylie Jenner
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #3. MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson)
MrBeast is one of the most influential YouTubers, known for his groundbreaking philanthropy and viral challenges. With over 500 million followers, Jimmy Donaldson has used his platform to raise millions for charity and support numerous global causes. His videos often include large-scale donations and efforts to improve communities worldwide. He has revolutionized content creation by blending entertainment with philanthropy. As a public figure, MrBeast continues to push the boundaries of what digital influencers can achieve for social good. His approach to giving back has made him a role model for young influencers worldwide.
In 2026, MrBeast surpassed 400 million YouTube subscribers and funded a $30 million global clean water initiative, building 1,000 wells across Africa and South Asia through Beast Philanthropy.
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #4. Charli D’Amelio
Charli D’Amelio became a household name as one of TikTok’s biggest stars, known for her dance videos and viral content. With a massive following of over 200 million on TikTok, Charli has become a symbol of youth culture and digital influence. Despite her success, she actively speaks out on mental health issues, sharing her struggles with the public to inspire others. She has used her platform to support various causes, including body positivity and women’s empowerment. Charli also works with brands to promote inclusive beauty standards. Her influence is marked by both her talent and her authenticity, making her a voice for change.
In 2026, Charli signed a diversity-focused beauty collaboration with a major global cosmetics brand that sold out its first 500,000 units in 72 hours while amplifying mental health resources in the campaign rollout.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #5. Emma Chamberlain
Emma Chamberlain is a YouTube sensation whose quirky, relatable style has garnered her millions of followers. She uses her platform to explore mental health, lifestyle, and the pressures of growing up in the spotlight. With over 100 million followers across platforms, Emma has created a space for young people to feel seen and heard. She embraces authenticity and transparency, often sharing her struggles with anxiety and self-image. Emma’s down-to-earth approach has earned her widespread praise, especially among Gen Z audiences. Through her work with brands and her own clothing line, she promotes inclusivity in fashion and beyond.
For 2026, Emma expanded Chamberlain Coffee into 12,000 retail locations nationwide and launched a limited-edition apparel capsule that generated seven-figure revenue in its first week.
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #6. Charli & Dixie D’Amelio
Charli and Dixie D’Amelio have redefined sibling goals, with both rising to fame through TikTok. Together, they have amassed over 200 million followers, making them one of the most influential sibling duos in the world. They have used their platforms to promote body positivity, mental health awareness, and social responsibility. Their authenticity has helped foster a community of followers who feel connected to their journeys. Charli is known for her dance routines, while Dixie has ventured into music, both embracing their influence to speak out on important causes. The D’Amelios continue to dominate the digital space, using their influence for good.
In 2026, the D’Amelio sisters secured a joint streaming docuseries renewal and launched a size-inclusive footwear collaboration that reached $15 million in launch-week sales.
@charlidamelio @marcdamelio ♬ Pitbull – Hotel Room Service – Clarity
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #7. Alan Chikin Chow
Alan Chikin Chow is a YouTube and TikTok sensation known for his comedy sketches and relatable content. With over 91 million followers across platforms, Alan is a leading voice for Asian American representation in digital media. His lighthearted approach to serious topics, such as identity and culture, has made him a role model for many. He often uses humor to tackle the challenges of being a minority in a predominantly white entertainment space. Alan’s videos continue to bring awareness to Asian American struggles while entertaining and inspiring a diverse global audience. His success represents the power of digital creators to influence societal conversations.
In 2026, Alan premiered a scripted YouTube Originals comedy centered on Asian American identity and closed a brand deal portfolio exceeding $20 million in annual partnerships.
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #8. Yara Shahidi
Yara Shahidi is a talented actress and activist who has gained widespread acclaim for her role in “Grown-ish” and her advocacy for education and social justice. With over 8 million followers, Yara has been a strong advocate for young people, particularly women of color, to get involved in politics and activism. She founded “Eighteen x 18,” a campaign that encourages young people to vote and make their voices heard. Yara also speaks out about the importance of representation in media. Her influence as both an entertainer and an activist has made her a powerful voice for diverse communities. She continues to empower young people to challenge the status quo and push for change.
In 2026, Yara executive produced a new social justice documentary series distributed globally and expanded her Eighteen x 18 initiative to register over 250,000 first-time voters.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #9. Marques Brownlee
Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, is one of the most influential tech YouTubers with over 5 million followers. He has established himself as a leading voice in the tech world, known for his in-depth product reviews and insightful commentary on the intersection of technology and society. Marques is passionate about increasing diversity in tech, using his platform to spotlight underrepresented groups in the industry. He is an advocate for equal opportunities and greater inclusion within the tech space. Marques’s authenticity and expertise make him a trusted figure in the tech community. His influence is a testament to the importance of diversity in all industries.
In 2026, Marques Brownlee hosted a live tech equity summit streamed to 3 million viewers and partnered with a Fortune 500 brand to fund $5 million in STEM scholarships for
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #10. Tabitha Brown
Tabitha Brown is a beloved figure in the vegan community, with a strong following of over 4.5 million. Known for her positive attitude and comforting presence, she uses her platform to promote wellness and self-love. Tabitha’s approach to veganism is inclusive and welcoming, encouraging people from all walks of life to try plant-based living. Her content resonates with individuals seeking a more holistic and compassionate lifestyle. She also advocates for body positivity and mental health, fostering a sense of community. Tabitha’s influence continues to grow as she spreads her message of kindness and acceptance.
In 2026, Tabitha launched a nationwide plant-based food line in partnership with a major grocery chain, reaching 4,000 stores and selling over 2 million units within its first quarter.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #11. Ava DuVernay
Ava DuVernay is an acclaimed filmmaker and activist whose work focuses on racial justice and representation in Hollywood. With over 2.2 million followers, she uses her platform to address issues of inequality and encourage underrepresented voices in the film industry. Ava’s powerful films, such as “Selma” and “13th,” have sparked global conversations about civil rights and systemic injustice. She is the founder of ARRAY, an organization dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and people of color in cinema. Ava continues to break barriers for filmmakers of diverse backgrounds. Her work has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in the arts and social justice activism.
In 2026, Ava expanded ARRAY’s distribution slate to 20 new independent films and secured a landmark studio deal prioritizing women and filmmakers of color with an eight-figure funding commitment.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #12. Jackie Aina
Jackie Aina is a beauty influencer and entrepreneur known for her commitment to inclusivity in the beauty industry. With over 2 million followers on Instagram, she is a fierce advocate for darker skin tones in beauty products. Jackie has built a successful career by challenging mainstream beauty standards and pushing for more representation. Her YouTube channel is filled with makeup tutorials, reviews, and discussions on racial issues in beauty. She has worked with major beauty brands to promote diversity in their product lines. Jackie continues to be a trailblazer, using her voice to empower people of color to feel beautiful and confident.
In 2026, Jackie introduced a 30-shade inclusive complexion collaboration that sold out online in under 24 hours and expanded her beauty advocacy into a certified mentorship incubator for Black creators.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #13. Taylor Cassidy
Taylor Cassidy is an emerging voice in the digital space, advocating for Black history education and youth activism. With over 2.2 million followers on TikTok, she uses her platform to educate young people about Black culture and history in a fun and engaging way. Taylor’s content is both educational and entertaining, using humor to make history accessible to a new generation. She also shares her experiences growing up as a Black woman, providing valuable insights into the complexities of identity. Taylor is committed to creating positive change through her platform. She continues to inspire young Black creators and advocates for more diversity in education and media.
In 2026, Taylor released her debut educational book on Black history, which entered the New York Times Best Seller list within its first month and secured distribution in over 10,000 schools.
@taylorcassidyj Black history month has never been predicated on the word of a white man. Anyways PLEASE PREORDER MY BOOK! 💗💗✨✨#blackhistorymonth #blackhistory #tiktokuniversity #greenscreen #hillmantok ♬ original sound – Taylor Cassidy
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #14. Charity Ekezie
Charity Ekezie is an influencer and comedian known for her humorous takes on African culture and social commentary. With over 3.4 million followers on TikTok, she blends comedy with insightful discussions about identity, culture, and race. Charity’s content explores the intersection of African traditions and modern life, often using humor to tackle serious topics. She is a strong advocate for mental health awareness and often speaks about the importance of self-care. Charity’s videos continue to challenge stereotypes and foster cross-cultural understanding. She remains a powerful voice for African communities worldwide.
In 2026, Charity launched a cross-cultural comedy tour spanning 15 countries and partnered with a global wellness brand to fund mental health workshops across African universities.
@charityekezie Guess how much it cost me to braid this hair 🥰 #charityekezie #braidstyles #livinginafrica ♬ original sound – Charityekezie
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #15. Rose Montoya
Rose Montoya is a transgender rights advocate and body positivity activist with a strong presence on Instagram and TikTok. She has used her platform to raise awareness about transgender issues and body acceptance, particularly for trans women. With a following of over 791K, Rose shares her personal journey as a transgender woman, providing support and resources to others in the community. Her content covers everything from beauty and fashion to LGBTQ+ advocacy. Rose is committed to normalizing transgender experiences and challenging harmful stereotypes. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to live authentically and embrace their true selves.
In 2026, Rose executive produced a transgender-led documentary that premiered at a major film festival and partnered with an inclusive beauty brand to launch a sold-out Pride campaign collection.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #16. Moghelingz (Banele Ndaba)
Banele Ndaba, known by his handle Moghelingz, is a comedian and influencer who uses his platform to celebrate African culture and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. With over 2.8 million followers on TikTok, he is known for his funny and thought-provoking videos that explore the complexities of identity. Moghelingz combines humor with activism, challenging societal norms and pushing for greater acceptance of marginalized groups. He also discusses the challenges of being both African and LGBTQ+ in a society that often marginalizes both identities. His infectious personality and willingness to tackle tough topics have made him a beloved figure in the LGBTQ+ and African communities. Banele’s content promotes inclusivity, love, and understanding for all individuals.
In 2026, Moghelingz headlined a sold-out LGBTQ+ comedy tour across five African nations and signed a multi-platform content deal valued in the seven-figure range.
@moghelingz COMING BACK HOME LATE WAS LIKE😂🎬 if you can relate, Comment with your late coming story. #moghelingz ♬ original sound – Moghelingz:)🇿🇦
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #17. Elizabeth Booker Houston
Elizabeth Booker Houston is a legal analyst and political commentator who uses her platform to tackle social justice issues and advocate for political change. With a growing following of 437K, she provides insights into the intersection of law, race, and politics, often using her platform to highlight issues of inequality. Elizabeth’s work focuses on legal reform, criminal justice, and civil rights. She is also passionate about educating her audience on the importance of voting and political engagement. Through her commentary, Elizabeth empowers others to become more informed and involved in their communities. She continues to use her influence to fight for a more equitable society.
In 2026, Elizabeth contributed to a nationally broadcast legal reform series and partnered with a civic nonprofit to launch a digital voter education campaign reaching 2 million young adults.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #18. Katie Feeney
Katie Feeney is a rising star in the world of TikTok and YouTube, with a massive following of over 14 million. Known for her sports content, unboxing videos, and relatable personality, she’s made a mark as a digital creator who resonates with Gen Z. Katie advocates for inclusivity in sports and encourages young people to embrace their unique identities. She often shares her experiences of balancing school with her social media career, inspiring others to pursue their passions. Her channel continues to be a space where diverse voices and interests are celebrated. Katie’s positive attitude and enthusiasm for her audience have made her a trusted and relatable figure.
In 2026, Katie signed a multi-year ESPN digital hosting contract and led a female-athlete NIL campaign that generated over 50 million combined social impressions.
@katiefeeneyy My putting needs some work😅 @ESPN ♬ original sound – Jacobs.fx
TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #19. George the Poet
George the Poet is an acclaimed spoken word artist and activist known for using poetry to address social justice issues, especially related to race and class. With a growing platform, he uses his voice to challenge systemic inequality and amplify the concerns of marginalized communities. George’s powerful words have been featured in his TED talks and his acclaimed podcast, which covers a range of topics from politics to mental health. As a writer, George focuses on themes of identity, social justice, and change, which have earned him a loyal following. His ability to weave storytelling with activism makes him a standout voice for diverse representation. George continues to inspire through his art and advocacy, calling for action and reflection.
In 2026, George released a new season of his award-winning podcast featuring 20 global activists and published a poetry anthology that sold over 100,000 copies in its first quarter.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #20. Ade Adepitan MBE
Ade Adepitan is a Paralympian and television presenter who has become an influential figure in advocating for disability rights. With a strong presence on Instagram and Twitter, Ade uses his platform to promote accessibility, sports, and inclusion. Ade’s journey from growing up with a disability in Nigeria to becoming an internationally recognized athlete has inspired millions. His activism and work with organizations supporting people with disabilities highlight his commitment to equal opportunities. Ade’s influence extends to educating society on the importance of representation in media and sports. He continues to break barriers, both in his career and in advocating for a more inclusive world.
In 2026, Ade fronted a BBC accessibility campaign viewed by 12 million households and partnered with a global sportswear brand to launch adaptive athletic gear across 18 countries.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #21. Ellie Middleton
Ellie Middleton is a neurodivergent influencer who has used her platform to advocate for mental health, neurodiversity, and workplace inclusion. With a growing audience on Instagram, Ellie shares her experiences living with ADHD and the importance of creating spaces where neurodivergent people can thrive. She promotes self-care, mental wellness, and inclusive practices in the workplace. Ellie is known for her candid posts that explore the challenges and successes of navigating life with ADHD. Her commitment to raising awareness about neurodiversity and advocating for accommodations in professional environments has resonated with many. Ellie’s impact continues to grow as she breaks down barriers and changes perceptions around neurodivergence.
In 2026, Ellie launched a neurodiversity workplace certification program adopted by 120 companies and secured a six-figure book deal focused on inclusive leadership practices.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #22. Jake & Hannah Graf
Jake and Hannah Graf are a transgender couple who have used their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and share their experiences as parents. With a growing following, they have become one of the most visible trans couples on social media. Their content covers a wide range of topics, from parenthood and relationships to transgender advocacy and mental health. Through their journey, Jake and Hannah offer a glimpse into the realities of raising children as a trans couple while navigating the complexities of gender identity. They actively promote inclusivity, self-love, and the importance of family. Their platform continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many in the LGBTQ+ community.
In 2026, Jake and Hannah partnered with a major streaming platform for a family-centered LGBTQ+ docuseries and collaborated with a parenting brand on an inclusive national awareness campaign.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #23. Nicola Adams
Nicola Adams is a trailblazing boxer and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, known for being the first openly gay Olympic gold medalist in boxing. With a significant following on Instagram, Nicola uses her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote equality in sports. She is an advocate for diversity in athletic spaces, inspiring many young athletes from marginalized communities to pursue their dreams. Nicola’s work extends beyond the ring, where she speaks out on issues of gender and sexual identity in sports. As a proud representative of the LGBTQ+ community, Nicola continues to break barriers for future generations. Her influence and activism have made her a leading voice for inclusivity and representation in sports.
In 2026, Nicola co-founded an LGBTQ+ athlete mentorship initiative supporting 500 young boxers and signed a sports equity endorsement deal spanning Europe and North America.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #24. Yasmin Benoit
Yasmin Benoit is an asexuality awareness activist and model, known for using her platform to educate people about the asexual community. Through her Instagram and Twitter, she promotes inclusivity and understanding of asexuality, a topic that is often underrepresented in mainstream media. Yasmin’s work includes modeling, public speaking, and writing about her experiences as an asexual person. She has become one of the leading voices for the asexual community, challenging stereotypes and advocating for greater representation. Yasmin also works with organizations that support LGBTQ+ and mental health causes. Her advocacy continues to inspire those who feel marginalized and misunderstood.
In 2026, Yasmin headlined a global asexuality awareness summit streamed to 1.5 million viewers and collaborated with an international fashion house on a Pride capsule collection promoting ace visibility.
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TOP INFLUENCERS FOR DIVERSE REPRESENTATION #25. Haddy Ndure
Haddy Ndure is an influencer and advocate for diversity, using her platform to celebrate cultural representation and inclusion. With a strong following on Instagram and LinkedIn, Haddy shares her experiences growing up as an immigrant and working towards a more inclusive world. She is known for her efforts in promoting diversity in the workplace, highlighting the importance of representation at all levels of society. Haddy actively collaborates with organizations that support underrepresented communities, aiming to create spaces where all people feel valued.
In 2026, Haddy launched a corporate diversity leadership consultancy serving 50 multinational clients and hosted an inclusion summit attended by over 3,000 HR executives worldwide.
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CONCLUSION
The influencers highlighted in this list represent the changing landscape of social media, where diversity and inclusivity are no longer afterthoughts but measurable drivers of growth and brand equity. Through their platforms, they’ve created spaces where authenticity and self-expression translate into higher engagement, stronger loyalty, and real purchasing power. Each of these influencers is shaping how representation shows up in fashion, entertainment, tech, sports, and media, proving that visibility directly impacts market demand. They’ve pushed conversations on racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, disability inclusion, and mental health into mainstream brand strategy. Their success shows how digital influence now converts cultural impact into tangible revenue and policy change.
As more creators align partnerships with inclusive values, representation is becoming embedded in contracts, campaign KPIs, and product development pipelines. These individuals are not just trendsetters; they are strategic collaborators influencing hiring decisions, casting standards, and retail expansions. Their platforms function as cultural accelerators, turning once-marginalized narratives into front-page conversations. In 2026, inclusive influencer campaigns are generating up to 2x higher conversion rates compared to non-inclusive benchmarks across beauty and lifestyle sectors. The momentum is measurable, scalable, and redefining what leadership looks like in the creator economy.
Sources:
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https://influencermarketinghub.com/influencer-marketing-benchmark-report/
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https://www.pewresearch.org/topic/internet-technology/social-media/
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https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights
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https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tag/diversity-and-inclusion/
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