Growing up, the concept of kindness seemed straightforward—donating clothes, giving back in tangible ways. But at 19, I've come to realize that kindness is a rich tapestry woven with empathy, social engagement, and a drive for transformative change. As an advocate for a kinder world, I've observed the profound impact that Gen Z can make in reshaping societal values, especially regarding generosity.

Gen Z stands at the precipice of a revolutionary era, challenging norms and redefining the meaning of giving. For us, generosity isn't just about one-off acts; it's about diving deep into the root causes of societal issues. Through my experiences as a Giving Tuesday Starling and a young impact leader, I've delved into the multifaceted nature of generosity culture.

My journey began with a realization that traditional acts of charity often overlooked systemic faults, particularly in crucial sectors like education. As a young impact advocate, I've gained profound insights into the disparities and faults within educational systems across various communities. The lack of access to quality education became a focal point in my understanding of where generosity and kindness could make a transformative difference.

My initiative (SONGA ) then began with a simple idea—to show that there are diverse and impactful ways to nurture generosity in local institutions and directly to those in need in our communities. We embarked on a journey that transcended mere donations, aiming for deeply immersive experiences. This year, we've donated over 100 books to Gathiga Primary, provided 280 sanitary pads to St Catherine's Primary, cooked meals for 80 rehabilitated street boys from Mary Immaculate Rehabilitation Centre, and conducted a street outreach program, offering food to 50 street families.

My experiences have shaped my approach to generosity. Instead of merely addressing the surface issues, I've sought to catalyze change from within. Our initiatives aimed not just at donating books but at understanding the systemic barriers that hindered education for many. It's not just about giving pads; it's about breaking the stigma around menstruation that affects educational opportunities for young girls. These realizations steered my generosity journey towards deeper, more impactful avenues.

My vision broadened as a Giving Tuesday Starling. I noted that harnessing the power of collective action was essential for developing a culture of kindness. It is about uniting a generation to channel their energy and creativity into revolutionary initiatives, rather than focusing on what one person can do.

Becoming an African impact leader broadened my perspective. It allowed me to witness the diverse tapestry of generosity across communities, transcending borders and cultural differences. It's not just about local impact; it's about connecting hearts and minds globally to drive change.

These experiences have fueled my commitment to reshaping the narrative around generosity. Gen Z isn't just a generation; we are catalysts for societal transformation. We see beyond immediate needs, aiming to address root causes and foster sustainable change. Our goal is to create a world where kindness is proactive, where generosity is embedded in every facet of life.

The faults and disparities I've witnessed in sectors like education have served as catalysts for my youth advocacy. They've illuminated the pathways toward a kinder world, urging me to lead initiatives that foster empathy, dismantle barriers, and empower communities. It's about understanding that giving is a revolutionary force that reshapes societies, not merely a charity deed.

As a result, my objective is not just to initiate change, but also to inspire others to join the cause. I am confident that if young people are given the necessary tools, information, and resources, they can become successful change agents in their communities. It is not about random acts of kindness; it is about developing in every young person the confidence to make a meaningful contribution.

Through leveraging social media, podcasting, youth and activities, I aim to ignite the spark of change within young minds. I want the youth to understand that their voices count, their actions matter, and their ideas have the ability to transform society. By fostering leadership skills, promoting empathy, and encouraging critical thinking, I aim to build a network of empowered young African leaders who are passionate about making a difference.

This approach is about more than simply the immediate impact of our projects; it is about producing a ripple effect. Empowered youth become ambassadors, inspiring others to join the movement for a kinder, more inclusive world. We are laying the groundwork for a future in which compassion, empathy, and generosity thrive in the hands of the next generation of leaders by encouraging young people to take responsibility for their communities.

I'm inspired by my peers’ perseverance and drive as we embark on this profound journey. Together, we're crafting a narrative where generosity isn't a passive gesture but a driving force behind societal change. Gen Z is rewriting the playbook, demonstrating that kindness isn't just an ideal; it's a movement that has the power to transform the world.