Real-life events where the youth proved they can change the future

“Papunta ka pa lang, pabalik na kami.”

To hear these words is a punch in the gut, no matter how familiar they are. As a 24-year-old, I have heard this phrase many times from older people when I try to make a point or explain my actions that are against their standards.

We are often criticized for being rebellious, outspoken, and liberal. Quite frankly, there’s nothing wrong with it. If these actions make a positive change along the way, then perhaps we are doing something right.

Defying societal norms and making innovative changes are what the youth is known for—here are some real-life events where our generation displayed our strength in numbers and demonstrated our impact on the world. 

Information campaigns

Researching on the internet is easy. At the same time, it’s easy to fall into the pit of disinformation. Having a critical eye for truth is a must. 

The past year we saw the rise of youth-led information campaigns including Black Lives Matter, What’s Happening in the World, and #AchibDisBill.

Gen Z redefined “woke” through the Museo de Filipino trend on Tiktok, 40-second videos where you could be informed about historical events.

Meanwhile, Media Commoner and PAGASA PH combine aesthetics and bite-sized information to keep the public informed about cultural insights, news and political messages in a user-friendly way. 

Online typhoon relief drives 

Typhoons Rolly, Siony, and Ulysses caused a severe blow to the Philippines. Many Filipinos lost their homes and livelihood, and until now, many families are struggling to recover from the disasters’ effects. 

Despite this, quarantine restrictions didn’t faze the youth. Social media became a source of hope, such as YouthRise PH’s compilation of rescue efforts and donation drives.  

The youth also harnessed social media’s power to provide information such as typhoons’ effects, keeping your pets safe and important PSAs.

Caring for the environment

The effects of climate change are now part of our reality. Unknowingly, everyday actions like constant plastic use and irresponsible waste disposal are threatening the biodiversity of our environment. 

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg was one of the youth leaders who actively pushed for reforms in addressing climate change. In 2019, at age 16, she was hailed as the youngest Time Person of the Year for her passionate efforts to keep the public informed.

In the Philippines, the youth-led nonprofit organization For The Future organizes reforestation and animal conservation efforts for endemic animals and supports indigenous tribes.

Registration for 2022 elections 

The 2022 national elections in the Philippines are fast approaching. Even if we’re still facing a pandemic, voter’s registration for the elections and several youth movements are making the headlines.

Since many teenagers will be at the legal voting age by 2022, it is an opportunity for the youth to spread information on why it’s important to register. One of the information campaigns of youth-run social media platforms includes The Butterfly Effect’s e-rehistro step-by-step video. 

In the words of Taylor Swift’s famous song Only the Young, “only the young can run” and change the world for the better. Age is just a number—and the youth are more than ready to move the future toward a more peaceful and accepting community for all.

Creating positive change and deepening your passions is possible, especially with Smart Prepaid. Continue to be inspired by stories of the youth who improve their skills for the better, pursue their passions and discover their purpose. 

Discover how only the young can do so and make a difference in Smart’s website. 

Editor’s Note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring and educational content created by PhilSTAR L!fe in collaboration with brands like Smart.