#161: AI’s Future to Personal Triumphs

Gen Z’s Economic Surge, AI’s Job Revolution, and Stories of Resilience

Hello,
This week, we’re diving into stories that define a world in flux—how Generation Z is reshaping economies, how AI is transforming education and jobs, and how timeless skills and unique perspectives fuel success.

Let’s explore this week’s inspiring insights!

Gen Z—The Economic Powerhouse of Tomorrow

Generation Z (born 1997–2012) is a transformative economic force. With a 2023 global income of $9 trillion, projected to hit $36 trillion in five years and $74 trillion by 2040, Gen Z will soon be the largest demographic, comprising ~30% of the global population.

Their spending, set to reach $12.6 trillion by 2030, prioritizes experiences—air travel surged 35% in 2023—and dining over material goods.

Gen Z is redefining consumer trends, embracing plant-based diets and cutting back on alcohol. Despite being the most educated generation (57% of 18–21-year-olds in college in 2022), many face underemployment.

Yet, their wage growth, up nearly 8% in 2024, outpaces others, signaling rising influence. Their value-driven mindset is disrupting industries and social norms.

What’s the takeaway for businesses? Understanding Gen Z’s priorities is key to shaping the future.

AI and the Future of Coding Education

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising coding education, as discussed by leaders like Aparna Chennapragada (Microsoft), Osi Imeokparia (Kode With Klossy), and Amjad Masad (Replit) on Bloomberg.

Masad’s “vibe coding” concept shifts the focus from syntax to ideas, with AI handling technical complexities.

With Meta predicting all its code will be AI-generated within 18 months and Microsoft already at 30–35% AI-produced code, the question arises: Do kids still need to code?

The answer lies in computational thinking and creativity.

Imeokparia highlighted “tastemakers” who apply judgment to navigate AI-generated software, citing Sarah Bakewell’s idea of “taste” as a key skill for identifying breakthrough innovations.

Chennapragada emphasized computational literacy: “Imagination and ambition for these models… It’s the literacy of today.”

Masad envisioned entrepreneurs as the job of the future, empowered by AI tools to build ideas and start companies.

Yet, concerns linger. Anthropic’s CEO Dario Amodei predicts 50% of white-collar jobs could vanish in five years.

Chennapragada counters, “Every technology shift creates new jobs… They’ll get reshaped in ways hard to imagine now.” Why does this matter? As AI automates tasks, skills like creativity, judgment, and entrepreneurial thinking will define the workforce.

Timeless Skills for an AI-Driven World

Morgan Housel, author of The Psychology of Money, emphasizes two skills for his nine-year-old son: communication and getting along with those who hold differing views.

These “evergreen” skills are critical in a polarized, social media-driven world.

“Learn how to communicate as writing… and learn how to get along with people so you can move ahead,” Housel advises.

In an AI-driven future where automation handles technical tasks, human connection—through clear communication and empathy—remains irreplaceable.

Why should we care? These skills will define success as technology accelerates, enabling collaboration and opportunity across industries.

Transition: Resilience and unique perspectives also drive success, as Jamie Oliver’s journey with dyslexia shows.

Jamie Oliver’s Dyslexic Superpower

Jamie Oliver, with over 50 million books sold, credits dyslexia for his creativity and resilience. School was tough—reading, writing, and spelling were hurdles, leaving him with just two GCSEs.

“I couldn’t read very well, I couldn’t write very well… but I found my way,” he reflects. Dyslexia fueled his innovative approach to cooking and advocacy, turning challenges into strengths.

His story shows how embracing differences unlocks potential. What’s the lesson? Unique perspectives can spark extraordinary impact, inspiring others to rethink limitations.

Tihana Pavic Smitran—Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Tihana Pavic Smitran, Co-founder of the MaNaBu Movement, is a passionate mentor to women entrepreneurs, driven by a mission to provide what she lacked early on:

“Someone who knows how to ask the right questions at the right moment. Someone who understands the challenges, yet also sees the opportunities.”

Her belief in women’s entrepreneurship stems from its ripple effect—empowered women build businesses, communities, jobs, and cultural change. Yet, she notes, barriers like limited funding and lack of support persist, hindering progress.

Through MaNaBu, a nonprofit organisation empowering children and youth globally, Tihana has witnessed the transformative power of social entrepreneurship.

This fuels her mentorship, exemplified by her work with Andreja Majhen, a dedicated educator and mother whose journey began with a heartbreaking diagnosis: doctors told her that her daughter would never be able to read or write.

Refusing to accept this, Andreja developed her method of working with her daughter, who today not only reads and writes, but runs her own business.

Driven by this personal experience and her professional expertise, Andreja created Superpower: I Learn Differently, an e-book and guide for parents of children with dyslexia and dysgraphia. (We will share more details in our future newsletter)

With Tihana’s mentorship and support, the idea grew into a series of workshops and broader resources that are now empowering thousands of families across the region.

Stay Curious, Stay Ahead!
Priyanka

www.educationnext.in

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