For more than a century, researchers and social anthropologists have been dividing people into generations according to their birth years. Come 2020, and it’s time to reckon with the largest generations in the world – Millennials and GenZ. 

The youth of today have grown up in a world defined by terrorist attacks, recession, unprecedented climate change and a worldwide pandemic. The Internet has also increased the representation of minority communities and provided access to endless information. As a result, young people today are far more passionate and vocal about issues of diversity, equality and climate change – and they are bringing their values to the workplace. 

Being saddled with the decisions of previous generations while navigating a world on the cusp of unprecedented change, there is more pressure than ever on Millennials and GenZers to find solutions to the ever growing problems the world is not equipped to handle. But while it took a pandemic to jolt everyone into acknowledging the shortcomings of their outdated systems, Millennials and GenZers have been advocating swift and radical action to tackle the world’s pressing issues far earlier than that. 

People everywhere have finally woken up to the reality of climate change due to the efforts of Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg. All over the world, youths frustrated by the lack of decisive action have undertaken projects unlike any of their predecessors. From Canadian Kevin Smiley, who runs a tea-packaging business by hiring Syrian refugees; to Indian Deepanjali Dalmia, who produces sanitary pads made of bamboo fibre and corn – young people everywhere are coming up with new and ambitious solutions to the world’s burgeoning problems. 

Even those who are not involved in scientific breakthroughs or innovative start-ups are making their presence felt in the world. GenY and GenZ’s strong principles and ethical awareness have caused many businesses to rethink their values and strategy. More and more beauty companies are abandoning animal testing while fashion brands are pledging to recycle materials. Companies are encouraging healthy workplaces with adequate maternity leave and hiring more diverse employees. Members of the LGBTQ+ community and minorities are getting media coverage and representation like never before. 

As Millennials and GenZers grow older, the future looks promising with vast opportunities for change and progress. But these battles for change cannot be won alone. Problems of such magnitude cannot be solved by a few young people if they have to constantly work against the tide of global policies and actions.  They require the support of people of all ages and strong back-up from governments. It has become imperative for governments and businesses – now more than ever – to listen and to act.