What motivates Gen Z? Inside a generation driven by purpose, authenticity and change

Dubai: What fires up Gen Z? Is it the lure of the next viral trend, the relentless drive for change, or something deeper: a search for meaning and identity in a world defined by uncertainty and hyper-connectivity? As a Gen Z journalist, I set out to understand what drives my peers, what sets us apart and why the world seems so invested in deciphering our motivations. A different world, a different generation “We are all human beings. What differs is the developmental environment,” psychologist Fatma Hassan Alabdouli told me at the start of our conversation. “Gen Z grew up in a completely different environment. Older generations lived in a time when technology was not as advanced, and people were not as connected to the outside world.” psychologist Fatma Hassan Alabdouli It’s a statement that echoes through every story I hear from my generation. Where our parents and grandparents navigated life through face-to-face advice and local communities, Gen Z grew up with a world in our pockets. Exposure to global perspectives, ideas and causes has become our norm. “We’re aware we live in more difficult societal and economic conditions than those in which Gen X and boomers did,” said Alie Dal Pos , 28. “If we want to live life fully, we have to step away from that traditional approach to work and demand more from our workplaces.” Alie Dal Pos Motivation: More than money or likes While stereotypes suggest Gen Z is obsessed with technology and instant gratification, the reality is more nuanced. Our motivations are diverse, fuelled by personal growth, passion and a desire to make a real difference. “Purpose motivates us a lot,” said Hessa Altamimi , 22. “We want opportunities where we can grow, be creative and actually feel like our contribution matters.” Hessa Altamimi For Sohane Akouh , 22, it’s about justice and improvement: “We want to make things better for every generation, not just Gen Z. It’s not about being lazy or selfish, but to improve everybody’s quality of life.” Sohane Akouh Alabdouli explains this drive as a complex interplay of nature, nurture and shifting economic realities. “Gen Z has access to a lot of information and understands the importance of pursuing a higher salary and a better position. They understand why these goals matter and have access to tools that can help them achieve them,” she said. “But the motivations are different — some are driven by personal meaning, others by family or social pressure.” The digital double-edged sword No discussion of Gen Z is complete without social media. Its influence is both a blessing and a curse: a platform for connection and inspiration, but also a source of relentless comparison. “Social media provides access to information that people are looking for... People can find examples of others achieving their goals, which can inspire them,” said Alabdouli. “But exposure to other people’s achievements can contribute to comparison and feelings of inadequacy.” Bushra Khalifa Alnaqbi , 24, puts it simply: “Freedom of expression and giving them sufficient confidence to forge ahead [motivates us].” Bushra Khalifa Alnaqbi Social media can amplify this, offering a stage for individual voices but also a mirror reflecting perceived shortcomings. A generation bridging two worlds Ahmad Makki , 26, sees Gen Z as “a mix of both worlds — nostalgia from the past and the rapid change of the present”. He adds: “We’re not just the ‘iPad generation’ — real experiences still matter to us.” Ahmad Makki Ahmad’s perspective highlights a reality often overlooked in mainstream narratives. While Gen Z is undeniably digitally native, many are deliberately seeking tactile, hands-on passions that ground them in the real world. For this generation, technology is a tool, not a total identity, and the desire for genuine experiences remains as strong as ever. Identity: A generation of self-discovery What truly makes Gen Z different is our approach to identity. We’re less concerned with fitting into predetermined moulds and more focused on forging our own paths. “When we think about identity, older generations were often more focused on what they needed to do and how to get it done,” said Alabdouli. “The current generation, with its extensive exposure to other cultures, is more focused on forming its identity.” Creativity and adaptability are at the heart of this shift. “I think we’re more willing to do things differently instead of following one traditional path,” said Hessa Altamimi. And this search for authenticity isn’t just about ourselves. “I’m trying to make my mom understand that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams if you are able to do so,” said Sohane, recounting how she encourages her mother to pursue her ambition of becoming a lawyer. Mental health: Openness and challenge Gen Z is often accused of being ‘too sensitive’ or obsessed with mental health. But, as Alabdouli points out, “Mental health struggles have always existed. The difference is that Gen Z is more aware of the