Time To Bring Gen Z To The Decision-making Table?
Gen Z is emerging as a force of change, advocating for inclusivity, sustainability and equity while demanding a seat at the decision-making table
Gen Z is emerging as a key driver of social change, using their passion, innovation and digital savvy to address global challenges. A recent panel discussion brought together notable voices to explore how this generation is reshaping the world with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability and equity.
The panel, chaired by Ashish Beergi, founder of Mash Project Foundation, featured diverse voices including UNICEF advocates, social entrepreneurs, content creators and public policy professionals. They threw light upon Gen Z's unique approach to activism and social engagement.
Sejal Kumar, a digital creator and UNICEF collaborator, shared her experience of using social media to drive awareness on mental health and feminism. She recounted personal stories underscoring the transformative power of digital platforms in educating and empowering young minds. "The only resource my cousin had to understand feminism was Instagram and YouTube, and that’s amazing," Kumar remarked.
Anushka Sinha, a Gen Z social entrepreneur, stated, "We are the inheritors of the future, and it’s our responsibility to address issues like climate change and gender inequality." She detailed her journey from tutoring a single child at age 10 to leading a youth-driven foundation impacting thousands.
The discussion also explored the importance of creating inclusive spaces for youth voices. Nishita Sharma from UNICEF stressed the need for programs like Passport to Earning, which equips marginalised youth with digital literacy skills to access opportunities. Similarly, Aradhana Rai Gupta, co-founder of Project Bala, advocated for integrating social impact education into school curriculums to foster early awareness about pressing global challenges.
Rohit Kumar, co-founder of Young Leaders for Active Citizenship, noted that while social media is a powerful tool for mobilising communities and amplifying marginalised voices, it also requires a balance with on-ground activism to avoid performative trends.
The session concluded with a call to action: involve Gen Z as equal partners in decision-making processes. "Nothing for us without us," echoed Anushka Sinha, encapsulating the collective sentiment of the panel.
The panelists recognised the complexities of bridging digital divides and addressing unequal access to resources. Programs like UNICEF’s National Youth Climate Consortium are paving the way for grassroots voices to engage directly with policymakers.
The session also touched on the role of families, schools and communities in fostering early civic engagement and active citizenship. As Sejal Kumar aptly put it, “All of us here are advocates, but none of that matters if you're a different person back at home. Change begins at home.”
This dialogue not only celebrated Gen Z's achievements but also set the stage for a collaborative future where their innovative ideas can drive lasting societal change.
