Every generation brings something new to the table, but Gen Z is taking things to a whole new level.
Born into a world that’s changing faster than perhaps ever before (and not necessarily in good ways), they’re using their voices, technology, and their more liberal perspectives to push for real change. Whether it’s in workplaces, politics, social movements, or daily life, they’re making an impact in ways previous generations never did. Here are just some of the ways Gen Z is actively changing the world for the better — we need to give them more credit!
1. They’re demanding mental health support like never before.
Gen Z isn’t just talking about mental health—they’re making it a priority in schools, workplaces, and everyday conversations. Unlike older generations that often saw therapy as a last resort, they see it as basic self-care. They’re pushing for companies to offer mental health days, better access to therapy, and a culture where struggles aren’t seen as weaknesses. The change is making a real difference. Schools now have better mental health resources, and workplaces are taking burnout seriously. Thanks to Gen Z, open conversations about anxiety, depression, and self-care are finally becoming the norm rather than the exception.
2. They refuse to settle for toxic work environments.
Gone are the days of blindly accepting bad bosses, low pay, and exhausting hours just because “that’s how it’s always been.” This generation has made it clear that they won’t tolerate outdated work cultures that prioritise profits over people. They’re not afraid to quit, demand better pay, or call out companies that exploit workers. Because of this, businesses are rethinking how they operate. More companies are embracing remote work, prioritising work-life balance, and creating healthier work environments. The message is clear: if a workplace is toxic, they’ll leave — and they’ll take their talent with them.
3. They’re pushing for real climate action.
Unlike older generations who grew up seeing climate change as a distant problem, Gen Z knows it’s happening now. They’re calling out governments, holding corporations accountable, and demanding actual policy changes instead of empty promises. They’re leading climate strikes, investing in sustainable products, and ditching wasteful brands. The pressure is working! Companies are being forced to step up their sustainability efforts, and policies around the world are shifting toward greener solutions. The fight isn’t over, but they’re making sure no one can ignore it.
4. They’re rejecting hustle culture.
For decades, people were told that working non-stop was the only way to be successful, but Gen Z is flipping that mindset. They value efficiency, automation, and smart work over mindless grind. They want careers that allow them to enjoy life, not just survive. As a result, there’s a growing movement toward four-day work weeks, better pay transparency, and flexible jobs that don’t require people to burn out just to pay their bills. They’re proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of health and happiness.
5. They’re normalising financial transparency.
Talking about money used to be taboo, but Gen Z isn’t playing that game. They openly discuss salaries, negotiate pay raises, and share financial advice online. They’ve exposed how previous generations were underpaid and how many industries rely on secrecy to keep workers in the dark. This shift is already changing things, which is pretty great. More people are negotiating salaries, companies are being called out for unfair pay gaps, and younger workers are entering the job market with more financial knowledge than ever before.
6. They’re redefining higher education.
College was once seen as the only path to success, but this generation isn’t buying that idea. They’re questioning the value of expensive degrees, exploring alternative career paths, and proving that skills matter more than diplomas. More of them are choosing trade schools, online certifications, and self-taught skills over massive student debt. Because of this change, businesses are starting to care more about experience and less about traditional education. Hiring managers now prioritise skills over degrees, making the job market more accessible for those who choose to skip university.
7. They’re making social justice impossible to ignore.
Gen Z doesn’t just talk about change, they make it happen. Whether it’s fighting for LGBTQIA+ rights, racial equality, or gender inclusivity, they’re using social media, protests, and online petitions to push for real progress. They’re not afraid to call out injustice, no matter where it happens. Because of their activism, laws are being changed, outdated policies are being challenged, and companies are being held accountable for their actions. They’re proving that social justice isn’t just a trend — it’s a movement that won’t stop.
8. They’re making therapy cool.
For older generations, therapy was often seen as something for “serious problems.” Gen Z, on the other hand, treats it like going to the gym — just another way to stay healthy. They openly talk about their experiences in therapy and encourage others to seek help without shame. As a result, mental health care is becoming more accessible. Online therapy platforms are booming, workplaces are offering better mental health benefits, and younger people are learning to process their emotions instead of bottling them up.
9. They’re redefining gender and identity.
This generation is pushing society to expand its understanding of gender and identity. They challenge outdated norms, embrace inclusivity, and support people expressing themselves however they feel comfortable. They’re leading the charge for gender-neutral language, inclusive fashion, and better representation in the media. Thanks to their influence, schools, workplaces, and even legal systems are making changes to accommodate a wider spectrum of identities. Gender expression is becoming more fluid, and society is finally catching up (though admittedly, we seem to be taking steps back for every bit of progress that’s made, at least for now).
10. They’re using the internet to educate themselves.
Unlike previous generations who relied on traditional education, this generation knows how to learn anything online. Whether it’s coding, investing, or personal development, they use YouTube, TikTok, and online courses to teach themselves valuable skills. Because of this, they’re entering the workforce with knowledge beyond their years. Self-taught coders, artists, and entrepreneurs are thriving without ever stepping into a classroom, proving that traditional education isn’t the only way to succeed.
11. They’re rejecting outdated beauty standards.
Source: Unsplash For decades, beauty industries pushed impossible standards, but Gen Z is dismantling that pressure. They embrace natural beauty, body positivity, and skincare over heavy makeup. They call out brands that promote unrealistic images and push for real representation. This movement is forcing the beauty and fashion industries to change. More brands are embracing authenticity, and younger generations feel less pressure to conform to outdated beauty ideals.
12. They’re changing how we consume news.
Source: Unsplash Traditional media outlets no longer control the narrative — this generation is getting their news from independent journalists, social media, and digital creators. They fact-check, call out misinformation, and refuse to accept biased reporting without questioning it. Because of this, politicians and corporations can’t get away with the same level of media control they once had. Information spreads faster, people are more informed, and holding power accountable is easier than ever.
13. They’re shifting from materialism to experiences.
Source: Unsplash Unlike previous generations that focused on owning things, Gen Z prioritises experiences over possessions. They spend on travel, concerts, and hobbies instead of collecting stuff they don’t need. They care more about memories than material wealth. As a result, businesses are shifting toward experience-based services, and people are rethinking what really makes them happy. The “more is better” mindset is fading, and a simpler, experience-driven lifestyle is taking its place.
14. They’re proving that kindness is powerful.
Source: Pexels Despite being called “too sensitive” or “too soft,” Gen Z is showing that kindness is a strength. They prioritise empathy, support mental health awareness, and create online communities built on encouragement rather than competition. Given how harsh the world often feels, they’re proving that real change comes from lifting people up, not tearing them down. And that, more than anything, is what makes their impact so powerful.
