How do we cultivate the next generation of global changemakers?

Society · Published 11 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: True activism requires more than just passion; it demands a specific set of tools and a structured way of thinking. From the classrooms of Ritsumeikan University to global platforms like TED, researchers and leaders are exploring how we can move from individual impulse to sustained social progress.

The journey of a changemaker is often shaped by the intersection of formal and informal education. According to a 2023 qualitative research study by Ann Flanagan at Ritsumeikan University, both types of curricula play a significant role in how students perceive social change and their subsequent motivation to act. By interviewing five students and one teacher, the study found that the path to activism is not merely about willpower, but about the development of specific skills and networks.

Two critical mechanisms identified in this research are experiential learning and critical reflection. These processes are not just academic exercises; they are essential components that help individuals build the confidence and the practical toolkit necessary to navigate complex social landscapes. For higher education institutions and policymakers, the implication is clear: creating the next generation of leaders requires moving beyond theory to provide transformative, hands-on experiences.

This structural approach to growth complements the lived experiences of prominent activists. For instance, Malala Yousafzai, an education activist and Oxford graduate, has used her platform to champion youth activists worldwide. During the global disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, her advocacy emphasized that the fight for girls' education must remain relentless, even when traditional avenues of progress are stalled. Her perspective highlights the tension between maintaining one's personhood and the intense demands of global advocacy, suggesting that the future of social progress relies on both individual resilience and the systemic support of emerging leaders.

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