In 2020, WOW launched the Young Leaders Directory, connecting inspiring girls, young women, and non-binary activists from across the globe. Since then, 149 incredible young leaders have been part of this movement for change!

This October, we’re celebrating their achievements and sharing their stories to inspire you to take action for a gender-equal world.

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They’re changing the world. Will you?

By Rochelle Meaden, Young Leaders Directory 2021, UK

I truly believe there is a role for everyone in social movements. Lots of young people care deeply about the world around them and have a lot to offer movements for justice, but sadly don’t know where to start. This is the situation I found myself in as a bright-eyed 15-year-old.

Now at 21, I’m proud to say that I have been involved in anti-racist activism in the UK for the past half a decade. I’ve learnt a lot of lessons along the way, so here are the tips I would give any young person looking to make a change in their community:

Find a group

Many people mistakenly believe that only exceptional individuals, people like Malala or Greta Thunberg, can make a real difference. In reality, social change is made by lots of ordinary people coming together collectively to transform the world around them. So, my advice if you want to get involved in campaigning? Join a group! From Palestine solidarity groups to Copwatch and mutual aid networks, no matter where you are, there’s bound to be an initiative in your local community that’s full of people willing to show you the ropes. If you already have friends who are involved in campaigning, could you go to a meeting together?

Befriend older activists

As young people, when we campaign, we are building upon the hard fought victories and lessons of activists who have been around much longer than us. So, if you ever have the opportunity to connect with older campaigners, I really recommend you take it. I’m so grateful for the relationships that I have forged with older feminists, as these are people I know I can rely on for advice and comfort in difficult moments, because they have been in my shoes. If you are lucky enough to meet an activist from another generation, and you get on with them, I really encourage you to keep in touch.

Journal, journal, journal

Since my first days campaigning, I have always carried a notebook with me to any political event or meeting I go to. I initially started doing this because I have a terrible memory and was worried about forgetting important details from meetings. Now, however, my ‘activism notebook’ has evolved into a space for me to also record any new ideas, learnings or critical reflections about the work I’m doing. If you don’t know what to write about, a good place to begin is regularly ‘debriefing’ (evaluating) after any big actions, noting down any positives, areas for growth and emotions you may be feeling.

Remember to look after yourself

Finally, if you want to create a world where care is centred, it’s important that you care for yourself as a campaigner. Unfortunately, many activists forget to look after themselves, often because of guilt about prioritising themselves in the context of such important struggles against injustice. But when you neglect yourself for ‘the cause’, you risk burnout, which can stop you from campaigning altogether. So say no to things, always ask for help when you need it, take that break! Remember that protecting your wellbeing should always be your first priority.