Right now, the younger generation is proving to be more courageous than ever. Check out these political figures who’re fighting for change!
If you’re currently based in the UK, it’s fair to say that the British government is operating in extremely unprecedented times. Currently run by the relatively incompetent Labour Prime Minister. Keir Starmer. Who came into office with zero plan, and it shows. Throughout his tenure as prime minister, he has appointed Lord Mandelson as the UK ambassador to the US. Despite Mandelson’s clearly identified affiliations with the late sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. He has promised to ban university tuition fees, and later gone back on his word, and so forth.
In recent weeks, the UK has had its English council election. During the process, over 80 Labour MPs called for Starmer to quit. In addition, cabinet ministers privately advised him to “consider his position.” Despite this pushback, the political leader has appeared in several newspapers. Red-faced, urging that he is “not going to walk away”.
It’s hard to know which direction to look in for inspiring or influential political leaders in the UK. Since, for a long time, Labour felt like the only moralistic option. However, since Starmer’s election, the political leader has seen a detrimental decline. Now, instead, you’ll find that most leftists are turning towards the Green Party. And for good reason, too, since Zack Polanski has proven to be a reliable leader. Prioritising simple human rights that most politicians ignore. Such as humanising and giving support to the transgender community. Recognising and addressing the racial disparities in the UKs healcare system and more. Polanski has become the voice of reason. A strong candidate, most leftists feel, can somewhat safely reconstruct the disasters the Labour Party has implemented in the UK in the past few years.
To put it lightly, the UK doesn’t have the strongest of inspiring political figures at the top of our food chain. However, there are a few worldwide, proving to be noteworthy. Take a look!
Ella Keidar Greenberg
Last year, transgender activist Ella Keidar Greenberg served time in prison at just 18 years old. This was a result of Greenberg’s refusal to register herself in Israel’s draft. The young activist made this bold decision as a means to remain outside of the genocide that is currently taking place in Gaza. Now 19, Greenberg continues to be a brave young adult. Showcasing the lengths she will go to, to prove that she wants no active involvement in any war or political conflict that involves harming thousands of innocent civilians. A common spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ community, most of what Greenberg advocates for is fair treatment of people in that community.
So far, she has shown great courage by resisting major political forces, who have already shown her what disobedience gets people like her. Despite the harsh repercussions of the brave actions she takes, Greenberg continues to use her voice to educate young people on the importance of vocalising injustices and being on the right side of history.
Naomi Cachia
A Maltese politician, currently residing as a Labour Member of Parliament (MP), at just 31 years of age, Naomi Cachia has achieved far more than the average adult. At 21 years of age, she planted herself at the forefront of Maltese politics. Fast forward to 2024, and she made history as the first woman to be appointed as Government Whip in Malta. Last year, she was also a part of the launch of Paola Hub. A medical complex in Malta, providing healthcare to vulnerable citizens. Before this, the MP had spent several years working behind the scenes to develop the healthcare system. Since then, Cachia continues to be an active voice as the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE’s) youth rapporteur. Throughout her career, she has shown great gratitude to the younger generation for inspiring her. And all the youth activists who continue to test the waters as they speak up for what’s right.
Tushar Kumar
Tushar Kumar is the newest Mayor of Elstree & Borehamwood. Just a few days ago, Kumar made history as the first indian-origin Mayor to be inducted in the UK. Before his experience in office, Kumar studied Political Science at King’s College London. Although a member of the Labour Party, Kumar is proof that there is still hope in some parts of this political party. In the little time he’s acquired this title, he has already stated that his ambitions as Mayor are to work on the cost-of-living crisis and the housing crisis. Kumar is an inspiration to the younger generation because he is living proof that this industry is finally addressing the racial disparities that have kept Black and brown people away from equal opportunities for decades. With Kumar as the first Indian-origin Mayor in the UK, he spreads the message that POC can strive towards careers in spaces that often lack their presence.
Additionally, achieving a public service role with this level of responsibility at such a young age is a strong achievement. With just three years of experience studying political affairs, Kumar’s new role shows young adults that if you’re passionate and strive hard enough, there is the potential that you can, in fact, achieve what you’re looking for.
To be young, outspoken and politically driven is a gift that not everyone is allowed. Yet, more than ever, the younger generation continues to prove that they’re the most, if not the only ones, actively fighting for change. Seeking social justice, educational opportunities across the board, and peace. At Inside Success, we pride ourselves on championing those figures and pointing other young adults towards that direction for inspiration.
If you’d like to read more stories on other young people who are changing the game in political affairs, then sign up here for regular updates. Additionally, if you’re aged between 16 and 24, a membership at Inside Success gives you access to mentorships, possible job opportunities, and apprenticeships.
Laviea Thomas is a journalist at Inside Success who writes about film, music and politics.
Outside of that, she is an experienced freelance journalist with bylines in NME, The Quietus, Metal Hammer and more.
Over the years, Laviea has been an active panellist discussing fundamental conversations in the music industry, such as diversity and inclusion, and the importance of grassroots venues. She has been a panel guest for Kerrang! Focus Wales Festival, Future Yard and more.
