Shruti Swaroop, Founder of Embrace Consultancy talks about the potential of Young India in driving growth and effecting social change.
Every generation brings a new wave of change with it. Young India’s approach, awareness and willingness to challenge ingrained norms has the potential to not only drive growth but also bring about social change. Often at the forefront of advocating change, young India’s energy can drive social change movements:
1. Intersectionality Awareness
We live in the era of globalization. Young people have a greater understanding of intersectionality, and how different aspects our identity merge to create who we are. They are more sensitive to social identities such as gender, sexuality, race, class etc. A Diverse and inclusive environment at work, education and even in our everyday life is important for the nation to grow. By fostering collaborations with peers from diverse backgrounds, both nationally and internationally, the youth can augment better cultural understanding resulting in social change.
2. The power of social media
The younger generation is more aware of the power of social media. They are actively involved in online social life and are tech-savvy as well. With digitization seeping into everyday lives, young India can drive change with their presence online. They can connect to a wider audience online to raise awareness about DEI issues and mobilize support for social change. Harnessing their tech-savvy nature, youth can utilize social media for awareness and advocacy campaigns.
3. Policy Advocacy and education
One of the most important ways to bring social change is through policy innovation and this generation of Indians need to play an active role in policy advocacy especially to support and promote Equity, Equality and Inclusion. This must be done not only at the organizational or government level but also in everyday life. Engaging in educational initiatives and related awareness campaigns can help bring about policy innovation and change.
4. Peer-to-Peer Education
It is widely known that people are more receptive to learning and advice from their peers. Youth, therefore, can play an important role in bringing about change starting from the grassroots level. Organizing workshops, seminars, discussions, forums etc. within schools, colleges, amongst colleges can try to drive the movement. Besides this, youth-led organizations can also bring in a new phase of entrepreneurship that is cognizant of social responsibility and impact. Community building young Indians can create online and offline communities to not only provide a space for belongingness but also take the conversation to a wider audience and connect people.
Schools and Universities today teach about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to children as young as 10-11 years – this is a welcome change. Students of business management understand and aim to make a change in the society around them – which is heartwarming to say the least. The youth is the future. With their fresh perspective, young India can drive growth and social change, particularly in the context of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
