The Role of Gen Z in Shaping Social Impact: Insights from Kenya and the USA

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The Power of Gen Z and Social Media

Responsible Entrepreneurship Bachelor students Vinley and Merilyn are examining an interesting phenomenon in the recent global political landscapes: the power of people led primarily by Gen Z and human rights activists in response to the conflict in Palestine, the Finance Bill in Kenya, and the recent election campaigns in the United States. These movements highlight the transformative power of technology and the collective action of an educated and responsible community. They discuss the parallels between the youth-led protests in Kenya and the evolving role of Gen Z in the US, showcasing how social media is a crucial tool for mobilization, awareness, and impactful change.

Gen Z's Digital Influence in the United States and Kenya

In the United States, Gen Z has emerged as a formidable civic engagement, force driven by digital activism and a profound understanding of social media's power. The upcoming 2024 elections are set to see over 40 million Gen Z voters, including 8 million new eligible voters, underscoring their potential to significantly influence the political landscape (CIRCLE).

While Kenya has experienced a recent movement against the Finance Bill unlike any other in the country's history, led primarily by Gen Z and human rights activists utilizing social media platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, the US has also seen a surge in Gen Z-led activism. These two contexts highlight how social media plays a vital role in modern political activism and the future of civic engagement.

How social media-fueled Kenya's Finance Bill protests

‍Origins of the Protest

For slightly over a month, Kenya has witnessed a series of protests that began as an outcry on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram. The Finance Bill 2024 proposed several controversial measures, including:

1. Overtaxation on Essential Goods: The bill introduced higher taxes on necessities such as bread, sanitary products, and fuel, exacerbating the already high cost of living.
2. Economic Hardship: Many Kenyans were already struggling with economic difficulties, and the additional tax burden was seen as the last straw.
3. Invasion of Privacy: Amendments to the Data Protection Act included in the bill raised concerns about the government's intrusion into personal data and privacy.
4. Political Opposition and Distrust: Significant political opposition to the bill emerged, with many viewing it as symptomatic of deeper issues of governance and corruption.

The impact of Gen Z on the 2024 US elections

The 2024 US presidential elections present a significant moment, not just for the United States but for global politics. The potential rematch between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump represents a clash of ideologies that resonates beyond American borders. Gen Z, with its progressive values and digital savvy, is poised to be a decisive factor in this election. Their use of social media to mobilize, raise awareness, and advocate for issues like climate change, racial justice, and gun control will be crucial.

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The Role of Education, Technology, and Community

The protests underscore the pivotal role of education, technology, and community in modern civic engagement:

The importance of education in modern civic participation

An informed populace, aware of their rights and the implications of government policies, is crucial for effective civic participation. The Kenyan protests demonstrated how education can empower citizens to advocate for their rights and demand accountability.

How technology empowers Gen Z activism globally

Digital platforms played a vital role in mobilizing the protests. The hashtag #rejectfinancebill2024, for example, facilitated widespread awareness and coordination. The bill was eventually withdrawn and sent back to parliament, showcasing the impact of online activism.

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The role of community in sustaining activism

The movement saw Kenyans coming together, transcending geographical and social barriers to unite for a common cause. Kenyans in the diaspora also participated, with protests occurring in over eight cities in Germany. This sense of community solidarity was essential in sustaining the protests.

In contrast, the US elections reflect the intricate nature of Gen Z around the world looking for new and fresh ways to make what is important to them known, much to the dissatisfaction of the older generations. This might be an elaborate way to rebel and tell the current system and old generation leaders who have messed up what we have now: "We need a new world where we make the rules because you have spoiled what we have so far." Social media in the US is not only a tool for mobilization but also a platform for challenging the status quo and advocating for significant policy changes.

A Time for Change

The engagement of Gen Z in the United States mirrors the transformative period dubbed "Kenya under construction." The urgency for change is palpable, with the youth demanding transparency, accountability, and progressive policies. The influence of social media in these efforts cannot be overstated, as it provides a platform for raising awareness, countering misinformation, and advocating for policy changes.

Conclusion: A Global Call to Action

The movements in Kenya and the US serve as a wake-up call to young people across the world. They show the power of Gen Z and social media in holding governments accountable and driving meaningful change. The protests in Kenya are not just about the Finance Bill; they are about redefining governance and ensuring that leaders are responsive to the needs of their people. Similarly, the upcoming US elections are not just about American politics but will shape global political dynamics. The cultural and political influence of Gen Z cannot be underestimated. If you would like to take a longer look at this topic you can also explore the Chilean student protests, the "Ni Una Menos" from latin America, Indian Farmers Protests, Hong Kong Protests and March for our Lives movements created in the past.

At Tomorrow University, we emphasize empowering responsible leaders and leveraging technology for social change. The Kenyan protests exemplify these values, showing how an educated, tech-savvy, and united populace can indeed shape the future by their own means.

Join the movement

At Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences, our programs are designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders who are committed to making a meaningful impact on the world. Our courses go beyond traditional education, equipping students with the practical skills, innovative thinking, and ethical foundations needed to tackle the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. By fostering a deep understanding of social responsibility, technology, and community-driven change, we empower our students to not only succeed in their careers but to also lead transformative initiatives that drive positive change and build a better future for all.

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