We often hear that millennials are cocky or not engaged, a weird perception that has no foundation. I believe Gen Y is one of the most creative and determined generations we’ve seen in a while. We’re ambitious, capable and driven to succeed. And we’re creating a fairer society because of it.
It is wrong to suggest that Gen Y is lazy. Not only is it belittling and devaluing, it is also plain wrong. We know that young people are juggling more than ever: with a growing number managing study and work, and combining it all with a social conscience by volunteering and contributing to the community. Gen Y is also facing larger debts than previous generations as the cost-of-living has risen in recent decades and many are paying HECS loans back.
However, when we hear that the average age of a Labor Party federal politician is 50, the average age of a board director 53, (or that people under 40 account for only 12% of board directors), and the average age of a middle-manager is 43, there is an inherent question: will I ever make it?
While the answer is ‘yes’, especially as more babyboomers retire, Gen Y is not waiting to lead on change. Over the past 15 years Australia has seen the growth of the youth-led sector, and young people starting and operating organisations. We operate policy think tanks, global development projects, and gender equality drives, and we’re good at it. We also don’t need to look too far to see examples of young people engaging in commercial endeavours and shifting entire industries: Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook along with Chad Hurley and Steve Chen of YouTube.
Every generation faces criticism from its predecessor. But when that happens, the value of an entire generation can be written off, which at an economic level doesn’t make sense and at a social level is confusing. Obviously, young people are the leaders of tomorrow, but we may still need mentorship to rise up (much like what Sheryl Sandberg is preaching for women). Businesses should also consider that Gen Y craves a socially conscious business model, something the economic leaders of today often struggle with.
On the gender equality front, I believe Gen Y is leading a renewed charge. With new mediums to interact and share knowledge, it is Gen Y that is supporting the growth of women’s rights on the internet. We’re providing a new way to engage in the debate, to spread the knowledge of the benefits that come with closing the gender divide.
It was Maya Angelou who said “It is time for parents to teach young people early that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength”. By lamenting the attitudes of an entire generation the opposite happens. Let’s try and look beyond the differences between generations, and work together. That’s the most powerful action we can take.