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Chloé Hayden
Chloé Hayden is an autism advocate and social justice influencer. She shares her experiences as an autistic female and raises awareness about the need for greater inclusivity and support for neurodivergent individuals. Hayden actively engages with politicians and cultural figures to promote change. She has spoken at numerous global events alongside prominent personalities like former U.S. President Barack Obama and actor John Boyega. Her activism extends to gender equality, environmental justice, and civil rights.
Emma Chamberlain
Emma Chamberlain rose to fame as a YouTube creator and has since become a powerful advocate for mental health awareness. She started her social media career while battling depression in high school and is now open about her struggles with mental illness. With over 12 million YouTube subscribers and 16.1 million Instagram followers, she uses her platform to discuss personal growth and well-being. Her podcast, Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain, delves into topics like mental health, relationships, and self-improvement, making her a relatable and influential Gen Z figure.
Hadiqa Bashir
Pakistani activist Hadiqa Bashir founded Girls United for Human Rights in 2014, a group that educates communities about the dangers of child marriage and domestic abuse. She also advocates for girls’ education and access to healthcare. Bashir received the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award in 2015 and became the first Pakistani girl to be named Asian Girls Human Rights Ambassador in 2016. Her work continues to inspire young activists globally, making her one of the most influential Gen Z figures in human rights advocacy.
Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is one of the most renowned Gen Z activists, advocating for girls’ education worldwide. She survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012 and became a global symbol for resilience and equality. Malala was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize and continues to push for educational opportunities for young girls, particularly in marginalized communities. Her activism has influenced global policies and secured funding for girls’ education programs. She remains a powerful voice in the fight for gender equality.
Genesis Butler
Genesis Butler is a young environmental and animal rights activist. A dedicated vegan since childhood, she has received numerous awards for her advocacy. She made history as one of the youngest TEDx speakers and has appeared in Disney+’s Marvel’s Hero Project. Butler leads the Youth Climate Save movement, the first youth-led environmental organization focusing on the impact of animal agriculture on climate change. Additionally, she collaborates with Save LIFE Foundation to support underprivileged children in India. Her activism bridges environmental sustainability and humanitarian efforts.
Earthling Ed
Earthling Ed is a leading voice in online animal activism. He uses his platform to challenge anti-vegan arguments and expose animal cruelty. Inspired by a 2014 post about a chicken truck accident in Manchester, he became a vegetarian and later transitioned to veganism. Since then, he has dedicated himself to educating others about animal rights. His work includes writing books, delivering TED Talks, running an animal rescue centre, and launching an eco-friendly clothing line. These initiatives form part of his broader strategy to promote a vegan lifestyle and end animal exploitation.
Paige Layle
Paige Layle is an entrepreneur and social activist who founded The Paige Town Project, a global movement empowering young voices to drive change. She also launched Paige Town Apparel, an ethical fashion brand that donates proceeds to girls’ education initiatives. Recognized by TIME Magazine’s 25 Most Influential Teens of 2020 and Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneurs, Layle’s work highlights the power of Gen Z entrepreneurship in creating social impact.
Madeline Stuart
Madeline Stuart is a trailblazing model and disability rights advocate. As the first professional model with Down syndrome, she has challenged traditional beauty standards and promoted inclusivity in fashion. Stuart has walked the runway at major fashion events, including New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week. She also launched the #PowerMaddie campaign, encouraging people of all abilities to embrace their uniqueness. Beyond modelling, she actively speaks about the importance of equal opportunities in education, healthcare, and employment for individuals with disabilities.
Nadya Okamoto
Nadya Okamoto is a leading advocate for menstrual health and gender equality. She founded PERIOD Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating period poverty and ending the stigma around menstruation. Okamoto is also the author of PERIOD POWER: A Manifesto for the Menstrual Movement. Beyond menstrual health, she is an expert in Gen Z marketing and a mental health advocate. Her work has significantly contributed to the global movement for better menstrual education and access to hygiene products.
Greta Thunberg
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg gained global recognition for her relentless fight against climate change. She began her activism at 15, staging solo protests outside the Swedish Parliament in 2018. Her passionate speeches at major forums, including the United Nations Climate Action Summit, have made her a symbol of youth activism. Greta founded the Fridays for Future movement, inspiring millions of students worldwide to participate in climate strikes. Her advocacy has pressured governments and corporations to address environmental issues, reinforcing the urgency of sustainable policies.
These ten Gen Z influencers are using their platforms to create meaningful change in various fields, from environmental activism to human rights and mental health awareness. Their impact extends beyond social media, proving that young voices can drive significant global progress.
