Latest news with #youthculture
Forbes
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
How Gen A To Z Are Empowering A Comeback Of The Digital Camera
Casper Ravn-Sørensen, Chief Growth Officer of GoWish. Sometimes, the clearest signal of change comes not from what's new, but from what's old. At GoWish, we noticed something unusual in our user data from young teenagers: A surge in demand for digital cameras, which prompted a lot of attention from major news outlets like the Danish national broadcaster DR (BBC/NPR equivalent) and a variety of other popular mainstream and social media accounts. The reason we found out is that every spring in Denmark marks the start of confirmation season, a Christian tradition and coming-of-age milestone for many young teenagers, celebrated with big parties and lots of gifts for the young adults. This makes it one of the most interesting times of year to observe shifting trends in youth culture, which is what our "Crystal Ball" survey set out to uncover based on data from thousands of wishlists. The thousands of young teenagers adding digital cameras to their wishlists weren't looking for smartphone accessories or fancy DSLR-style cameras, either. These were digital point-and-shoots, like the ones many thought had vanished alongside MP3 players and flip phones. And we're not the only ones noticing this comeback. We thought that this was a fun trend, and it brought up some nostalgic feelings and conversations in the office. What really piqued our interest was when we realized that this wasn't a one-off blip. Across categories, there is a growing appetite for products that seem to be pulled straight from the late '90s or early 2000s. Polo shirts like Ralph Lauren and other trends are making a strong comeback. Retro, it turns out, is very much in style. If in doubt, notice how the mullet suddenly has reappeared on street level. What was once considered outdated is now being embraced with fresh energy. A Return To Retro I've written before about how younger generations (especially Gen-Z and the emerging Gen-A) don't engage with brands or technology the way previous generations did. This latest shift is yet another sign of just that. While previous digital trends have been about more connectivity, more sharing and more immediacy, what we're seeing now is a partial reversal: a desire for less noise, more focus and a different kind of authenticity. Take the digital camera as a prime example. For a generation raised on smartphones, it offers something surprising: boundaries. You can still document the moment and have fun doing mini photoshoots with your friends, but you're not being bombarded with notifications or pulled into a dozen apps the second you pull out the device. It creates room for presence. And while the photos might still end up on social media, the experience of capturing them becomes more intentional. This return to analog isn't about rejecting technology—it's about reshaping the experience of it. This is something brands should pay close attention to. The new generation of consumers isn't simply looking for the latest gadget or trend. They're looking for tools that support how they want to live, not just what they can do. And sometimes, the most powerful tools are the ones with fewer features. In Denmark, this same trend is apparent. The number one gift couples getting married wish for is fancy old-school classic wedding china from Royal Copenhagen. This traditional wedding gift never seems to go out of style—or if it did, it's now back at the top of the charts. If anything, the retro resurgence is a reminder that progress isn't always linear: Sometimes, moving forward means borrowing from the past. For those of us trying to understand what the next wave of consumers truly values, it pays to pay attention to what they're rediscovering, not just what they're discarding. Three Lessons For Those Building The Future So what can we as tech leaders, marketers and product builders take from this? First, trends don't always emerge from innovation alone. Sometimes, they surface from emotion, nostalgia, curiosity or even fatigue. The young teenagers asking for digital cameras aren't reacting to a new feature—they're responding to a feeling, which is something I believe organizations must learn to work with in the way customers are approached in social media advertising. Second, simplicity can be a feature. In an age of hyper-functionality, products that do less but do it well can stand out. The renewed popularity of digital cameras isn't about specs or megapixels—it's about boundaries. It offers a single-purpose experience in a multitasking world, which is exactly what many young users crave today. Third, these are generations that curate their identity more fluidly than any before it. Retro aesthetics, analog formats and slower digital experiences are part of how Gen-Z and Gen-A express themselves. If we want to design for them, market to them or simply understand them, we need to recognize that cultural context matters as much as technological context. Keep that in mind next time you call something outdated! Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify?
NHK
22-07-2025
- Business
- NHK
Knitting makes a comeback among Japanese youth
An old pastime is making a comeback among Japanese youth. They're increasingly taking up knitting, providing new opportunities for businesses and ways of building community.
BBC News
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Warwickshire teen DJ stages sustainable raves for under-18s
A teenage DJ has set up sustainable club nights for under-18 year Seven, 15, hosts a rave night called Wasted, which they said was born out of a passion for music, youth culture, and the stands for "waste education", and plastic is banned at the events, signs and noticeboards are made from recycled materials, and clubbers are encouraged to car share to get Warwickshire teenager said they wanted to show other people it was possible to do things differently and inspire them to recycle, and make other changes to help the environment. Sam said sustainability mattered a lot, as "ultimately, as a 15-year-old, this is about my future".It was also important to make it "cool," said the DJ, as sustainability can be "a bit of a boring subject for some people," despite many young people being fearful about climate is billed as being about regenerating rave culture through sustainability, climate messaging and positive mental wants to use the "community" of dancing in a room together to encourage action for the planet. There have been two club nights so far at Playbox Theatre, Warwick, where Sam said the reception had been great, and people "really resonate with the message."The DJ is even looking to use biodegradable glowsticks at the events, as they are "potentially one of the worst things" for the environment, but they are "super important" at a Seven is keen to make a living from playing music, as long as it remains possible to stick to beliefs around sustainability, because DJing is one of the "coolest jobs". Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
The Guardian
07-07-2025
- The Guardian
The worst thing about AI? That stupid Samsung ad where the guy adds ‘way too much sugar' to his pasta sauce
At a time of intense, bitter division, it's heartwarming when something brings us together. No, not 'briefly becoming experts in lawn tennis', or 'being too hot' – that stupid Samsung advert where the guy 'added way too much sugar to my gochujang pasta sauce' and asks his phone for help. If, by the greatest good fortune, you have managed to dodge it, Google Gemini (an AI 'assistant') suggests he makes 'tasty cookies' out of his sugary sauce. Instead of throwing his phone out of the window in holy rage, the youth seems inexplicably enthused ('Sweet!') and follows its frankly inadequate instructions – add butter, mix, bake for 10 minutes – before wandering off with a cookie, apparently happy with this bizarre outcome. It gives me a rage-powered eyelid twitch, so I was relieved to realise everyone off- and online feels the same ('Googled 'sauce advert stupid' and then made a Reddit profile just so I could find someone saying this and agree with them,' one commenter wrote). We differ only in what offends us most. Many are furious the 'advice' is so unfit for purpose, with comments such as 'It's SO ANNOYING – like what is he having for tea then????????' and 'For dinner I'm having plain spaghetti and flourless gochujang cookies', while anyone who has ever cooked anything is shouting: 'Just scoop the sugar out like a normal human!' People have noted other problems: adding butter to a bowl of sauce is not a cookie recipe, for starters. Some protested that pasta sauces typically contain onions and garlic; not ideal cookie flavours. Others pointed out the eggs, flour, cubed butter and vanilla extract handily out on the worktop – why? He's making pasta sauce! My husband is specifically offended because baking requires precision, and the hapless youth and his phone have no idea what 'way too much' is in grams. I've always avoided badmouthing AI – it seems like a simple commonsense survival tactic to keep the robots on side at this point. But when it starts disrespecting dinner and baked goods in this cavalier fashion, a line has been crossed. It's time to start a gochujang-flavoured fightback. Emma Beddington is a Guardian columnist
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
What Younger Generations Refuse To Compromise On In Relationships Anymore
In an era where swiping right has become a cultural norm, younger generations are drawing hard lines in the sand regarding what they will and will not compromise on in romantic relationships. This isn't a whimsical pursuit of the perfect partner, but a deliberate and discerning approach to love. While previous generations may have prioritized stability and tradition, today's youth is driven by authenticity, equality, and meaningful connections. Here are the 13 things younger generations refuse to sacrifice in their romantic pursuits. Gone are the days when emotional stoicism was seen as a strength. Today, emotional intelligence is a non-negotiable trait in romantic partners, valued for its ability to foster genuine connection and empathy. A partner who can read between the lines and respond with sensitivity is seen as a keeper. According to psychologist Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, emotional intelligence can significantly improve relationship satisfaction, making it a critical factor for many young individuals. Younger generations are no longer willing to settle for partners who lack introspection or emotional depth. They understand that relationships require vulnerability and open communication. It's not just about understanding one's own emotions; it's about recognizing and valuing the emotional landscapes of others. This intelligence is seen as a cornerstone for building a fulfilling and enduring partnership. For younger generations, gender roles are not just outdated; they're irrelevant. Many young couples today prioritize an equitable division of labor, both in and outside the home. They understand that a successful partnership thrives on mutual respect and shared responsibilities. The days of expecting a partner to fit into a predefined societal role are long gone. This shift is not just about household chores; it extends to financial contributions and emotional labor. Both partners are expected to show up equally in all aspects of life. This balance not only fosters a more harmonious home life but also ensures that neither partner feels overburdened. It's a new frontier in relationship dynamics, and for young lovers, it's nonnegotiable. While love often brings couples together, younger generations fiercely protect their personal space and independence. This isn't about keeping a partner at arm's length; it's about maintaining a sense of self. According to a study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, autonomy within a relationship leads to greater satisfaction and less conflict. Young individuals are increasingly aware that a healthy relationship thrives when both partners have room to grow individually. Independence is cherished not out of selfishness but as a means to nurture the relationship. It's about pursuing individual passions, hobbies, and friendships that contribute to a well-rounded life. By maintaining their own identities, both partners can bring fresh perspectives and energy into the relationship. This balance of closeness and independence is viewed as essential for long-term happiness. Communication has always been the bedrock of any relationship, but younger generations have elevated it to an art form. They value transparency and the ability to express thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. This openness fosters trust and allows for the resolution of conflicts in constructive ways. There is little patience for those who shy away from difficult conversations. The emphasis is on creating a safe space where each partner feels heard and understood. Avoiding passive-aggressive tendencies and mind games is crucial. Instead, the focus is on articulating needs and desires clearly and respectfully. This approach not only strengthens the bond between partners but also builds a foundation for resilience in the face of challenges. In an increasingly complex world, younger generations know the importance of aligning on core values and beliefs with their partners. This doesn't mean having identical views on everything, but rather a fundamental compatibility on issues that matter. Sociologist Dr. Terri Orbuch emphasizes that shared values are a key predictor of relationship longevity. It's about ensuring that both partners are moving in the same direction in life. Respect for differing opinions is crucial, but there must be a shared vision for the future. Whether it's views on family, career ambitions, or social issues, these are the topics young couples discuss early on. This alignment prevents conflicts down the line and ensures that both partners can support each other's life goals. It's a strategic approach to building a relationship that lasts. A growing awareness of mental health has led younger generations to prioritize self-care, both individually and in their relationships. They understand that a healthy mind is the foundation of a healthy relationship. Partners who support each other's mental health journeys and respect self-care routines are highly valued. It's about understanding that mental well-being is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Younger couples also emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues early on. They aren't afraid to talk about therapy, medication, or coping strategies. This open dialogue not only normalizes mental health discussions but also strengthens their bond. Supporting each other's mental wellness is seen as an act of love and commitment. Adventure is no longer just for the thrill-seekers; it's a staple of modern relationships. Younger generations place a high value on shared experiences, seeing them as a way to build memories and strengthen bonds. Whether it's traveling to new destinations or trying out a new hobby together, these activities enrich their connection. According to travel expert Dr. Sarah Bennett, couples who explore the world together report higher levels of relationship satisfaction. These shared adventures aren't just about ticking items off a bucket list. They're about discovering new facets of each other and creating a narrative that is uniquely theirs. By stepping out of their comfort zones together, couples develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another. It's the excitement of the unknown that keeps the relationship vibrant and engaging. Money matters have long been a source of tension in relationships, but younger generations are tackling it head-on. They prioritize financial transparency and view it as essential to building trust. Open discussions about earnings, spending habits, and financial goals are encouraged. By aligning on financial expectations early, they avoid misunderstandings and stress in the future. This approach extends to financial planning as well. Younger couples are keen on setting joint financial goals and working towards them together. Whether it's saving for a house, planning a vacation, or investing for the future, these decisions are made collaboratively. This financial partnership is seen as a practical step towards a stable and harmonious life together. In a digital age, striking a balance between online and offline connections is crucial. Younger generations are acutely aware of the impact of technology on relationships. They value partners who can put down their devices and be present in the moment. This doesn't mean abandoning digital communication but rather using it to enhance, not replace, real-life interactions. Face-to-face time is cherished as an opportunity to deepen intimacy and understanding. Meanwhile, digital tools are used to maintain a connection when apart. The key is ensuring that technology facilitates rather than detracts from the relationship. This balanced approach allows couples to enjoy the convenience of digital communication while nurturing their bond through shared experiences. Younger generations no longer see career and relationships as mutually exclusive. They prioritize partners who support their professional aspirations and understand the importance of personal growth. This support is not just about encouragement but also involves practical help, like sharing responsibilities to allow each other time to achieve goals. It's a partnership where both individuals can thrive. Career support extends to celebrating achievements and being a cheerleader during setbacks. Younger couples value partners who are genuinely interested in their work and are willing to invest time in understanding it. This mutual support creates a dynamic where both partners feel valued and empowered. It's about growing together while respecting each other's individual paths. A keen sense of social and environmental responsibility is increasingly important in modern relationships. Younger generations are drawn to partners who care about the planet and social justice. They see these values as reflections of character and integrity. Whether it's reducing carbon footprint, supporting sustainable brands, or advocating for social causes, these actions speak volumes. These shared values create a bond that extends beyond the personal realm to a larger global perspective. Young couples are often engaged in activism and philanthropy together, finding common ground in making a difference. This shared commitment to the greater good reinforces their connection and sense of purpose. It's about being partners, not just in life but in creating a better world. Flexibility and adaptability are traits highly prized by younger generations. In a rapidly changing world, they value partners who can roll with the punches and adapt to new circumstances. This resilience is seen as vital for weathering the ups and downs of life together. Rigid and inflexible attitudes are seen as deal-breakers. Adaptability also means being open to change within the relationship itself. Younger couples understand that relationships evolve and require adjustments. They prioritize partners who are willing to grow and change with them. This flexibility ensures that the relationship remains vibrant and responsive to both individual and shared needs. Finally, authenticity has become the gold standard for younger generations in relationships. They prioritize partners who are genuine and true to themselves over those who project an image of perfection. This authenticity fosters deeper, more meaningful connections and reduces the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards. It's about being real and vulnerable, flaws and all. Perfection is not only unattainable but uninteresting. Authentic partners are valued for their honesty and transparency. Younger generations see the beauty in imperfection and celebrate individuality. This approach creates a space where both partners can be their true selves, leading to a more fulfilling and lasting relationship.
