Our First Annual Gen-Z Global Forum

CUSWF was proud to present the first annual Gen-Z Global Forum, developed by our Gen-Z team, to bring attention and understanding about an important and misunderstood segment of the population that is rising rapidly in importance as a force changing the world and moving it into the future. 

Gen Z'ers were born between 1996 and 2015. Globally there are almost 2 billion people in this demographic. They comprise the largest generation ever, comprising nearly 30% of the world's population. (including nearly 68 million in U.S. and 170 million in China.)

Being a member of this group means having a particular set of challenges that are impacting lives and shared experiences.  The online event was held on Thursday, October 15th and highlighted issues relevant to Generation Z, including mental health, the Hapa experience, the intersectionality of race across fields of study, and education. The first hour was a combination of pre-filmed and live discussion, followed by a more casual "cocktail hour."

Special Event:  Women's Power Tool Kit Talks

Topic: Gen-Z Global Forum

When: Thursday, October 15th, 2020 at 4:00-6:00 PM EST 

Topics 

Gen Z and Mental Health

Mental health has always been an important topic among Gen-Zers. The demographic has experienced higher rates of anxiety and depression, making it more likely that members of this group struggle with mental health. As COVID-19 shut down college campuses, closed K-12 schools, and made “working from home” the new norm, mental health awareness has never been more important.
 

The Hapa Experience
With 6% of Americans identifying as Asian American, a new generation of dual identities has been steadily increasing. Included in that experience is the “Hapa” or the half Asian experience. We shared stories of the Hapa experience, as well as discussed how the Hapa faced and responded to the recent incidents of racial bias towards Asians due COVID-19.
 

How Race Intersects College Curriculums
As the students of our nation's colleges and universities continue to diversify, the fields we choose do not always reflect these changes. Gen-Z are aware of this imbalance as we are keenly aware of the importance of diversity in the school and workplace. We explored what this means for Gen-Zers as we discuss the intersectionality of race across the different fields of study.

Impact of Virtual Learning

COVID-19 completely changed the face of K-12 and higher education. In a matter of weeks, the vast majority of students went from attending class in the classroom or lecture hall to a fully virtual model, with zoom rooms or Google Hangouts. What do Gen-Zers think of this online shift? Will “Zoom school” become the new norm or will Gen Z be itching to return to the physical classroom?

 
Thank you for joining us for this exciting event.