Social media has grown to such extent that it is a profound and integral part of our daily lives, something that we cannot live without.
Ask yourself this question, what were
you doing with your free time, 4 years ago ans what are you doing with your free time now? This might be more relevant to you, if you are between the ages of 15 to
36.
The reason for this might be simpler
than one might think, for one it is because social media is easily
accessible. If we take a look at the
mobile usage amongst South African youth, 72% of those between the ages of 15 and 24 have cell phones,
according to the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF.
This
technology enables them to go onto their social media platform easily and without
hassle. For example, according
to Social Bakers,
the largest age group using Facebook in
South Africa is between 25-34, followed by users between the ages of 18-24 and
90% of them are accessing this platform from their mobile device.
The biggest reason for the success of
social media is not just because it is easily accessible, but also because it
gives the youth, and everyone else, a voice that is loud and clear, one that is
heard. It gives them a chance to express
themselves in ways that so many disapprove of, especially in public places such
as schools, where students get judged by other students or people who don’t let
them express themselves. If someone were to judge you on Facebook, twitter, etc.
you can easily delete them which many can’t do outside of social media without
the risk of being bullied.
There is also a sense of power and
expression that builds self-esteem; they can converge with whoever they want
whenever they want to. It can also
be a way out for so many people, not just for the youth, who struggle in life, those
who have no friends or aren’t as social as those around them. It gives them a
chance to meet new people and find friends online, which they couldn’t have
done due to being shy or nervous.
Social media also helps
strengthen relationships. Many people have friends whom they have not seen
since school, or who have moved away and this platform gives them the possibility
of staying connected with one another.
Even though social media is sometimes
perceived as just being a cool tool for young people, providing them with swift
and easy means of communication it is also a platform to build their
self-esteem. People are still quick to judge the legitimate and informed uses
of social media platforms. However, having quick worldwide lines of
communication predominantly involving our youth, is exactly what is needed, to
reach, activate and involve them in matters concerning our environment,
education and social well being.
Remember the youth are our future and if we want them to be part of the
conversation, then social media is where we need to start the conversation.
