Published Paper Details:

Abstract: Generation Z (born 1997-2012) represents the first truly digital-native cohort, reshaping politics, spirituality, social media culture, and consumer behavior in ways that significantly impact both global and South Asian contexts. This study, titled, Generation Z and the Shaping of Tomorrow: Politics, Spirituality, and social media in the Global Future, critically examines how Gen Z mobilizes across these dimensions. Relying on secondary data from global institutions, government reports, scholarly publications, and press sources (2018-2025), the research investigates five interlinked objectives: political engagement, spiritual orientations, social media and identity formation, consumer behavior in the digital economy, and case studies of South Asian transformations. Findings highlight that Gen Z is not merely a demographic group but an active force of change. Politically, they exhibit issue-based activism, leveraging digital platforms for low-cost, high-impact mobilization--as seen in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Spiritually, Gen Z demonstrates hybrid practices, participating in large-scale rituals such as the Kumbh Mela 2025 while simultaneously consuming online spiritual content. Socially, their identities are shaped by social media ecosystems where self-expression, activism, and consumer lifestyles intersect. Economically, Gen Z emerges as ethical consumers who prioritize sustainability, authenticity, and digital-first experiences. Case studies confirm that Gen Z's influence is both disruptive and constructive, blending tradition with innovation to reshape civic life, cultural belonging, and the digital economy. The study concludes that Generation Z embodies a "glocal" identity--locally rooted yet globally connected--making them pivotal actors in shaping political accountability, religious adaptation, consumer markets, and digital cultures. By contextualizing Gen Z's role in South Asia alongside global patterns, this thesis offers insights for policymakers, educators, spiritual institutions, and businesses to engage effectively with a generation that is redefining the contours of tomorrow.