How Covid-19 shaped Gen Z
From navigating virtual classrooms to championing mental health and social change, Gen Z has turned challenges into opportunities, demonstrating a resilience that will define the future.
L.R TURNER28 Jan 2025 03:10pm
Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Canva
As the world came to a standstill, this group, just coming of age, faced a period of immense disruption.
But in true Gen Z fashion, they emerged stronger, more adaptive and ready to rewrite the rules.
From navigating virtual classrooms to championing mental health and social change, Gen Z has turned challenges into opportunities, demonstrating a resilience that will define the future.
COMING OF AGE IN A WORLD TURNED UPSIDE DOWN
For Gen Z, the pandemic wasn’t just a global event, it coincided with some of the most pivotal moments of their lives.
Graduations became Zoom calls and first jobs turned into virtual onboarding sessions.
Yet, while the traditional milestones shifted, Gen Z found creative ways to celebrate and connect.
“Looking back, the pandemic was a surreal and, to some extent, frustrating experience.
I missed out on many things I had been looking forward to, like graduating in person and wearing the cap and gown,” said Ezza Tahir, 26, an Administrative Assistant.
“However, it was also interesting. During that time, I reconnected with many school friends through social media.
"We even celebrated the end of our studies by doing TikTok dances remotely. It wasn’t traditional, but it was definitely memorable,” she added.
MENTAL HEALTH: FROM CRISIS TO CONVERSATION
Yes, the pandemic took a toll on mental health, but it also sparked a much-needed conversation, and Gen Z led the way.
While lockdowns and isolation were tough, they also made mental health a priority for this generation.
A study published in Jama Pediatrics (2022) highlighted a global rise in depression and anxiety among young people, but instead of suffering in silence, Gen Z turned to action.
They shattered taboos by openly discussing mental health on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, sharing coping mechanisms, and supporting each other.
Even better, they pushed for systemic change.
Gen Z is demanding more mental health resources in schools and workplaces, proving that this generation is not just surviving, they’re advocating for a world where mental health is non-negotiable.
A TECH-SAVVY GENERATION GETS EVEN MORE DIGITAL
Already the most digitally plugged-in generation, Gen Z took their tech game to the next level during the pandemic.
From Zoom classrooms to WhatsApp calls, they turned to screens to stay connected and informed.
But it wasn’t all doom-scrolling.
Gen Z used platforms like TikTok as creative outlets, launching viral trends, sharing mental health tips and even educating each other on social issues.
They didn’t just consume content, they created movements.
And while excessive screen time has been linked to higher rates of anxiety, Gen Z is also showing us how technology can be used for good.
They’ve turned social media into a tool for activism, education and connection, proving that even in isolation, they could thrive.
CAREER GOALS AND BIG DREAMS ON PAUSE
The pandemic hit the job market hard, and Gen Z felt the sting.
Many saw internships cancelled and job offers rescinded, while industries such as hospitality and retail, which are major employers of young workers, were significantly impacted.
But instead of giving up, Gen Z took a different approach.
They embraced side hustles, learned new skills online, and found innovative ways to earn and grow.
Platforms like YouTube, Etsy and Fiverr became launching pads for entrepreneurial dreams, with countless young people turning hobbies into full-fledged businesses.
Deloitte’s 2023 survey found that 47 per cent of Gen Z is concerned about financial security, but they’re also rethinking traditional career paths.
Flexible work, meaningful jobs and side gigs are now the name of the game.
PERSPECTIVE CHANGE IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE
The pandemic gave Gen Z something unexpected: perspective.
Forced to slow down, they began to reimagine what success looks like.
For many, it’s no longer about climbing the corporate ladder but finding balance, purpose and impact.
A 2022 McKinsey report showed that Gen Z is passionate about meaningful work, with a focus on sustainability, diversity and mental well-being.
They’re holding employers accountable and driving demand for flexible schedules and inclusive workplaces.
This generation isn’t just chasing paychecks—they’re chasing change.
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