“Do you think things will get better soon?”, someone asked me recently following our deep conversations about the state of the world and AI, a reoccurring conversation lately.

With so much bad news constantly circulating around the world, going online or even outside can sometimes feel so overwhelming.

However, in separate parts of the UK are two university students, both still remaining hopeful for the future.

Ruby Warder-Rowlands, 20, an art student from Stoke-on-Trent, says misinformation is at the centre of her fears. “With the abundance of misinformation, especially online, due to things like AI and content which blurs the lines between facts and opinions, it is creating a lot of unreliable sources of information.

The influence of AI has a personal effect on Ruby, as someone who believes in the importance of human creativity in artistic spaces, such as fine art, books, and cinema. However, she remains optimistic about how people will begin to respond to it in the coming years.

“I think despite AI infiltrating creative and educational spaces, people in 10 years might come to understand the importance of human connection and creativity.

“Experiencing the benefits of making something and being able to say “I did this”, instead of letting AI do it all for you – there’s a great feeling of reward for learning hands-on skills, and having physical, tactical media.”

Now more than ever it is important to take time away from our screens to reconnect with the community around, to help ground us to present moments. Ruby recalls a time when her faith was restored in humanity, even in the smallest of communities. 

“When my Nan’s neighbour’s shed caught fire, multiple neighbours joined together to call the fire brigade, and so many of them checked that everyone was OK. Thankfully no one was hurt but hearing how the community came together gives me a lot of relief in case of future emergency situations.”

Gen Z as the future adults:

Ruby’s hopefulness stems from her faith in her own generation. “I like to think that since Gen Z has grown up with access to the internet from a young age, that level of information meant that we got to see so much, both good and bad in the world.

“Although, knowing about so many different people and situations around the world through our developmental years has the potential for people of my generation to have a more holistic understanding of people and life. This will hopefully provide more creative solutions to problems we face now and in the future.”

For those fearing the worst at times of political or even climate uncertainty, Ruby and Ashley both have messages to those feeling powerless.

Ruby said she felt overwhelmed during voting in elections, but has approached it in an empowering way to use her voice.

“I was constantly worried about picking “the right one”, but putting your ballot in shows that people are engaging. It might not feel like much to you, but it counts. Keep in mind that progress isn’t linear; just because it may feel like we’re going backwards doesn’t mean we’re never going to go forwards again.

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“As young people we need to focus on the parts that we can change, stay aware, and do the things that can help even one person – a friend, family member, or even a stranger.”

Ashley Moran, 20, a politics student at Durham University nearing graduation, spoke about his fears as someone absorbed in the political landscape.

“The general shift towards right-wing fanaticism, and the erosion of truth, the loss of an objective truth and the refusal by some to challenge populism lies – marks a scary shift away from the politics of acceptance and kindness which should define our country.”

When the world feels heavy on his shoulders, Ashley looks to the smallest, mundane lovely moments to keep morale high.

“I look forward to each day being in this place, being surrounded by my best mates, being able to drink my morning coffee whilst looking out over the familiar street, noticing friends as they head to the library, or returning from last night’s escapades.

“I look forward to moments that don’t announce themselves as significant, because I know one day they’ll be the ones I miss the most.”

Despite these scary circumstances, he is confident in the power of people to become more supportive.

“The potential for a more accepting and caring society excites me, as well as the potential for a new breed of politicians who are not just made up of the Etonian, Harrovian elite – but rather a generation who are aware of the real struggles that people face.”

Finally, to those feeling powerless in the midst of political uncertainty, his message is clear for us to keep our heads up.

“Decisions are made by those who show up. A single person can make all the difference. We should never underestimate the power of a single voice, nor should that voice ever underestimate itself.”