The popular image of Generation Z often portrays them as individuals engrossed in social media and individualism. However, data suggests a more nuanced reality. In the Basque Country, for instance, young adults in their twenties demonstrate a significant reading habit (76.9% according to the 2025 Reading Habits Barometer), and like any demographic group, they are not a homogenous collective.
Carolina Mallol and Aritz Pérez, volunteers with the Global Shapers Bilbao association, are part of a group of young people aged 18 to 30 who drive local projects aimed at generating a "positive change and impact" in the community. This initiative, part of the World Economic Forum's international youth network Global Shapers Community, has organized solidarity campaigns such as collections for the Valencia DANA and the sustainable leisure program 'Green kaleak' in Bilbao.
Mallol and Pérez are two of the organizers of the second Gazte Action Day, scheduled for July 3rd at the Bilborock venue. The event will feature solidarity concerts by emerging bands Suger and FunkTree, with all proceeds going directly to the Banco de Alimentos de Bizkaia (Bizkaia Food Bank). A "zero line" has also been established for additional donations, under the slogan "1 euro, 1 chord," emphasizing citizen participation.
The project's core focus is food insecurity. Contrary to stereotypes, Pérez notes that young people are among the most active participants in collection campaigns, demonstrating solidarity and awareness of the issue. Musically, the event is notable for its absence of urban genres like hip hop or reggaeton, featuring rock bands Suger and Funktree with progressive and funk sounds. This highlights young people's interest in diverse musical genres and their appreciation for socially committed artists.
The first Gazte Action Day, held in 2023, brought together hundreds of young people from various countries. English served as the primary language, alongside Basque, and this linguistic blend has become a cultural trait of this generation, even reflected in the event's name, 'euskoenglish'.
