Review of Generation Z Voices Across Borders: Inspire Youth Journal’s Global Platform

TRANSCEND MEMBERS, 20 Apr 2026

Bishnu Pathak – TRANSCEND Media Service

Abstract

The Inspire Youth Journal is a global platform that amplifies the voices of Generation Z through journalism, storytelling, and dialogue. Founded by Anh La (Elsa) and edited by Karisma Sarkar, the journal brings together over 200 contributors from 40 countries to address pressing global issues and promote cross-border solidarity. The 25th edition (2025) showcases twelve selected articles from 250 submissions, covering a wide range of topics including Afghan women’s resilience, bioluminescence research, climate litigation, species extinction, migrant labor rights, mental health, AI in finance, civil rights history, immigrant labor, loneliness in Japan, neurosurgical innovation, and private equity. These narratives explore cultural resilience, scientific inquiry, environmental urgency, and social equity, offering diverse perspectives from developed and developing nations. While the journal excels in inspiring youth and fostering dialogue, its narrative-driven approach may sometimes lack empirical depth and methodological rigor. Nonetheless, it plays a crucial role in promoting critical thinking, civic engagement, and global solidarity among Gen Z writers.

Introduction

The Inspire Youth Journal, created in collaboration with the Founded and Developed by Inspire Youth Debate and Vietnam Public Forum Academy, provides a platform for young (popularly called Generation Z) voices in global youth journalism. It was founded by Anh La (Elsa), designed by Karisma Sarkar, and edited by Karisma Sarkar. The Journal’s goal is to connect emerging writers worldwide to address pressing global issues and promote peace and harmony through dialogue and storytelling. With a multicultural team of over 200 contributors from 40 countries, the Journal is more than just a publication, a common living platform. It serves as a dynamic forum where high school and university students, as well as recent graduates, can share ideas, document truths, seek justice, and engage in debates. By sharing diverse perspectives and transforming local experiences into inspiring narratives, the Journal educates and connects youths across borders. It also helps develop skills in ethical journalism, critical thinking, and creative storytelling. The IYJ empowers young voices, emphasizes the importance of perspectives, and highlights the role of stories in shaping the future. It bridges generations, challenges misinformation, and promotes solidarity around justice, equity, and sustainability.

Recently, I received the final draft of the 25th Edition of the Year 2025 (reference no. 1195/0ln3/2265), which showcases the project’s global reach. Contributions from forty countries were included, totaling 250 articles. Only twelve articles, approximately five percent of the submissions, were chosen for publication. This selection process highlights the extensive international participation and the editorial team’s dedication to upholding high standards of quality and relevance.

In her article “The Bravery of Afghan Women,” Moska Ahmadzai highlights the courage and leadership of Afghan women throughout history. She shares stories of remarkable women like Malalai of Maiwand, who inspired Afghan fighters in a battle against the British, Gohar Shad Begum, a queen who promoted culture and education, and Zarghona Anaa, whose wisdom influenced imperial decisions. Ahmadzai emphasizes that Afghan women have a long and rich history of warriors, resilience, bravery, and catalysts for change. Their stories inspire and educate, showcasing a relentless pursuit of rights and identity for the future of Afghanistan.

The article “Rewinding the Clock: Discovering the World’s First Bioluminescent Organism” by Bao Ngoc Truong delves into the origins of bioluminescence, the natural ability of organisms to produce light. Traditionally thought to have originated in marine ostracods around 267 million years ago, recent research on octocorals suggests that bioluminescence may have emerged over 540 million years ago, coinciding with the Cambrian explosion. Scientists propose that light signaling could be one of the earliest forms of communication, serving purposes such as deterring predators, attracting prey, and selecting mates. While there is ongoing debate about whether early bioluminescence was a defensive mechanism or a biochemical byproduct, its enduring presence underscores its significance in ecological survival. Despite limited fossil evidence, the study highlights bioluminescence as a fundamental evolutionary trait that continues to influence marine ecosystems today.

In 2022, Ed Green wrote an article about Greta Thunberg’s climate lawsuit being rejected by the Supreme Court in Sweden. Thunberg and the Aurora Group had filed a class action lawsuit against the Swedish state, claiming that inadequate climate action violated rights under the European Convention on Human Rights. The Supreme Court of Sweden dismissed the case, stating that courts cannot force the parliament or government to implement specific climate measures. However, the ruling does not rule out the possibility of individual rights violations being addressed through legal means. This decision highlights the challenges faced in advancing climate litigation, contrasting with varying outcomes in Europe, such as Switzerland’s recent ruling against its government in 2024. Despite setbacks, Thunberg’s case demonstrates the ongoing efforts of climate activism and the potential for future legal challenges.

In her article “How Does Species Extinction Impact Global Ecosystems?”, Donya Fournier delves into the pressing issue of species extinction and its far-reaching consequences on global ecosystems. The escalating threat is fueled by rising temperatures and human activities like deforestation, poaching, and habitat destruction, leading to extinction rates that are 1,000–10,000 times higher than natural levels. The rapid loss of biodiversity is jeopardizing ecological balance and resilience. Birds serve as a poignant example of this crisis, as their crucial roles in pollination, seed dispersal, fertilization, and pest control are at risk, potentially leading to ecosystem collapse. Fournier emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts such as the U.S. Endangered Species Act and reintroduction programs, underscoring the need for ongoing advocacy to protect biodiversity and ensure ecological sustainability for future generations.

In her article “Saudi Arabia 2034: A Test for Migrant Labor Rights,” Tanisha Kinikar explores the upcoming FIFA World Cup and its impact on migrant workers in the Gulf region. She sheds light on the oppressive kafala system that ties workers to their employers, leading to exploitation, wage theft, debt bondage, and unsafe working conditions. By drawing comparisons to the situation in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup, Kinikar shares stories of abuse and mentions some reforms such as minimum wages and hydration breaks, but points out their limited effectiveness. She emphasizes that the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia will be a crucial moment for testing migrant labor rights and holding the global community accountable with genuine ownership.

In her article “Debunking Schizophrenia: A Disorder Riddled with Myth,” Chau Do Minh challenges common misconceptions about schizophrenia and stresses the importance of understanding it beyond stereotypes. She explains how myths that portray individuals with schizophrenia as violent or unable to function properly distort reality and contribute to discrimination. Minh points out that schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, but with the right support, many people can lead fulfilling lives. By dispelling false beliefs, she emphasizes the need for compassion, awareness, and accurate information, presenting schizophrenia not as a hopeless condition but as one that requires empathy and informed care.

In his article “How AI Tools Are Reshaping Financial Decision-Making,” Prasanna Chandankhede delves into the impact of artificial intelligence on the financial industry. He discusses how AI algorithms and predictive models are transforming investment strategies, risk assessment, and consumer decision-making. Chandankhede emphasizes AI’s ability to analyze large datasets, identify patterns, and offer real-time insights that improve accuracy and efficiency in financial planning. While recognizing the benefits of AI, he also addresses challenges such as ethical considerations, data privacy issues, and the potential risks of excessive reliance on automation. Chandankhede’s narrative highlights the dual nature of AI as both a valuable tool for making informed financial decisions and a technology that requires careful oversight and governance.

Elza Elif Mehdiyev’s article “March on Washington: Causes, Facts and Consequences” researches into the significant event in American civil rights history. She explores the social and political dimensions that led to the 1963 march, focusing on the collective push for racial equality, jobs, and justice. Mehdiyev highlights the impactful speeches, particularly Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream,” and the march’s role in shaping public opinion and influencing key legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Her analysis emphasizes the enduring impact of the march as a catalyst for change and a symbol of unity and coexistence.

In her article “The United States’ Nail Industry: A Catalyst and Inhibitor in the Transformation and Growth of Vietnamese-American Culture,” Kaity Dong examines how the nail salon business has served as both a springboard and a hurdle for Vietnamese immigrants. She discusses how the industry has offered financial stability, community identity, social cohesion, and cultural representation, while also subjecting workers to exploitation, health hazards, and limited upward career advancement. Dong underscores the dual nature of nail salons as sites of empowerment and restriction, influencing Vietnamese-American culture in intricate ways. Her examination underscores the themes of resilience, adaptation, and the ongoing quest for respect within immigrant labor structures.

In her article “Kodokushi: The Severe Lonely Epidemic in Japan,” Teu-Khanh Phuong explores the rise of solitary deaths among Japan’s elderly. She discusses how cultural changes, urban isolation, and weakening family bonds have led to the phenomenon of kodokushi, where individuals die alone and undiscovered for extended periods. Phuong emphasizes the psychological, social, and economic implications of this epidemic, stressing its effects on communities and public health. She calls for enhanced social support, community involvement, and policy changes to combat loneliness and uphold dignity in Japan’s aging population.

In his article “Inside the Brain Revolution: How a New Era of Neurosurgery Is Rewriting the Future of Healing,” B. Mohan Krishna Reddy discusses the transformative advances in neurosurgery and their impact on medicine. He explores how technologies like robotics and AI are revolutionizing the treatment of neurological disorders, improving precision and patient outcomes. Reddy emphasizes the merging of science and compassion in this new era of healing, highlighting neurosurgery’s role in advancing medical progress and offering hope for humanity.

In his article “The Power of Private Equity: Driving Growth or Draining Companies?”, Ayush Ranjan explores the complex impact of private equity on businesses today. He discusses how private equity firms can provide capital, streamline operations, and foster innovation, presenting themselves as agents of growth. However, Ranjan also examines the negative aspects, such as aggressive cost-cutting, high debt levels, and a focus on short-term profits that can undermine companies and harm employees. His analysis highlights the conflicting roles of private equity as both a driver of progress and a potential threat to long-term stability, prompting readers to critically evaluate its overall impact.

Concluding Appraisal

The production of investigative articles by youth, popularly known as Generation Z members, is a commendable intellectual endeavor that deserves recognition. These young writers exhibit exceptional critical thinking and disciplined expression early in their academic and professional journeys. Their work underscores the enduring power of the written word in addressing complex issues with poise and analytical rigor. Not only do their contributions stand as individual achievements, but they also serve as inspiring models for future generations of Gen Z to cultivate reading habits, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Anh (Elsa) La’s dynamic leadership in guiding this journal publication is particularly commendable for her dedication to amplifying youth voices in global conversations. Oraina Ali’s editorial stewardship ensures the clarity and accessibility of the content, further enhancing the impact of the publication. The support from the Vietnam Public Forum Academy underscores the importance of institutional backing in empowering youth-led initiatives. Together, these efforts showcase the synergy of youthful creativity, editorial leadership, and institutional collaboration, fostering a culture of inquiry and advocacy crucial for the intellectual growth of upcoming generations.

Ahmadzai, a human rights advocate from Afghanistan, highlights the courage of women leaders and the hardships faced by women in Afghanistan, blending her heritage for gender empowerment in her work. Bao Ngoc Truong, a Vietnamese writer and poet, focuses on science, tracing the evolutionary roots of bioluminescence, demonstrating how youth voices can illuminate complex research. Ed Green, an aspiring lawyer with a keen interest in politics and journalism from the United Kingdom, engages with law and activism, narrating Greta Thunberg’s climate lawsuit in Sweden and placing it within the broader European struggles for environmental justice. Donya Fournier, an author and accomplished athlete from the USA, delves into ecology, examining species extinction and its ripple effects on global ecosystems. Tanisha Kinikar, a passionate changemaker from the USA, investigates migrant labor rights in the Gulf, connecting sports spectacle with human rights concerns.

Minh, an 8th-grade student from Vietnam, reflects on connecting small moments to larger ideas. Prasanna from Ghana aspires to join the United Nations. Chandankhede, a student at Delhi Private School International Ghana, is interested in AI. Elza Elif Mehdiyev, a 12th-grade student at Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School in Canada (originally from Turkey), is a TEDx speaker and changemaker passionate about international law, world politics, and environmentalism. Dong, a fourth-year student at the University of California, USA, studies Political Science-International Affairs and conducts research in various industries. Phuong, a 10th-grade student from Vietnam, is passionate about exploring social studies and participating in global debates as an aspiring writer. Reddy, a 9th-grade student from India, is a multidisciplinary researcher, writer, and global youth leader with a focus on neurosurgical innovation and healthcare equity. Ranjan, a junior at Oakton High School in Virginia, is interested in finance, particularly derivatives trading and fixed income.

By striking a balance between contributions from authors in developed countries (USA, England, Canada) and those from developing countries (Afghanistan, Vietnam, Ghana, India), the Inspire Youth Journal achieves a unique equilibrium. It amplifies voices that are often marginalized while also presenting perspectives from nations with greater institutional power. This dynamic interaction transforms youth journalism into a collective expression of global solidarity.

The journal’s diversity goes beyond geographical and cultural boundaries; it is a rich tapestry of intersecting themes that shed light on how Generation Z voices from various parts of the world grapple with common global challenges. By examining the authors and their topics side by side, we can see how science and environmental urgency (Truong and Fournier), politics, law, and justice (Green and Kinikar), cultural and historical resilience (Ahmadzai, Reddy, and Chandankhede), and global social equity (Mehdiyev, Dong, Ranjan, Minh, and Phuong) come together in a cohesive dialogue.

In the realm of science and the environment, Truong delves into bioluminescence, drawing connections between ancient evolutionary processes and contemporary scientific inquiry, while Fournier explores species extinction and its link to ecosystem collapse. These works transform scientific exploration into a lens through which we can view environmental responsibility and the interconnectedness of human and non-human life.

Within the jurisdiction of politics, law, and justice, Green examines Greta Thunberg’s climate litigation within European legal frameworks, highlighting the role of Generation Z activism, while Kinikar critiques migrant labor rights in Saudi Arabia, exposing the exploitation behind global events like the FIFA World Cup 2034. These articles showcase the intersection of politics, law, and human rights, illustrating how Generation Z journalism challenges established power structures. In discussions of cultural and historical resilience, Ahmadzai reclaims the narratives of Afghan women as leaders and changemakers, while Reddy and Chandankhede emphasize perspectives from developing nations, focusing on resilience, social reform, and cultural heritage. Together, these contributions underscore how culture and history empower marginalized communities and amplify voices that are often overlooked.

In the spheres of global social equity, Mehdiyev, Dong, and Ranjan bridge the gap between privilege in developed countries and struggles in the global community, while Minh and Phuong represent Southeast Asian voices that reflect both Western debates and regional realities. These authors bring a balance of perspectives from developed and developing countries, promoting dialogue across borders.

The Inspire Youth Journal serves as a platform for a cross-border dialogue, where culture, history, law, politics, justice, environment, and social equity intersect in a shared conversation among Generation Z from diverse backgrounds. Authors from Afghanistan, Vietnam, England, the USA, Ghana, Canada, and India offer unique cultural and historical perspectives that resonate with common concerns. Afghan history intersects with American environmental activism, Vietnamese science engages with European legal discussions, and African and South Asian viewpoints align with North American calls for equity.

This borderless dialogue fosters a sense of solidarity, emphasizing that Generation Z journalism transcends geographical boundaries and is united by a collective pursuit of justice, sustainability, and human dignity. The diverse origins of the authors create a chorus of perspectives where science meets justice, history meets activism, and local struggles meet global debates. This interplay elevates the journal beyond a mere publication; it becomes a platform for solidarity, embodying its mission as “A Global Platform for Generation Z Journalism.”

The 2025 edition of Inspire Youth Journal has several limitations. While it covers a range of global issues, including Afghan women’s rights, bioluminescence research, climate lawsuits, species extinction, and migrant labor rights, the articles often lack empirical data, methodological detail, and comprehensive analysis. For instance, the article on Afghan women focuses on historical figures but fails to delve into current socio-political challenges they face. Similarly, the piece on bioluminescence presents scientific findings without discussing research constraints or unresolved debates in evolutionary biology. The coverage of Greta Thunberg’s lawsuit and migrant labor rights in Saudi Arabia critiques systemic issues but lacks exploration of policy alternatives or comparative legal frameworks. While the journal excels in inspiring youth and amplifying diverse voices, its narrative-driven approach limits its utility as a rigorous academic or policy resource.

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Professor Bishnu Pathak is a distinguished member of the Truth Alliance Global and former commissioner at Nepal’s Commission of Investigation on Enforced Disappeared Persons (CIEDP). He has been nominated multiple times (2014-2019) for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his groundbreaking work on the peace-conflict lifecycle, a framework he likens to an ecosystem.  This lifecycle influences both academic discourse and practical peacebuilding efforts worldwide. With a Ph.D. in Conflict Transformation and Human Rights, Dr. Pathak brings over four decades of experience in peacebuilding, transitional justice, and human rights advocacy. Serving as a board member at the TRANSCEND Peace University, Dr. Pathak has authored 150 international papers and a dozen books that are widely referenced in over 100 countries. His publications cover a wide range of topics, including peace and conflict studies, human rights, human security, geopolitics, birthright equity, and transitional justice. For inquiries, collaborations, and/or speaking engagements, Dr. Pathak can be reached at prof.bishnu.pathak.np@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Transcend Media Service (TMS) on 20 Apr 2026.

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