In our national survey two years' back, tweens reported back on their key day to day concerns around FITTING IN: their image and also navigating friendships/ bullying.
This led directly to our choice of charity partners and mission to bust those two chief detractors of joy in the Tweendom.
But Tweens also (almost unanimously) reported on a future focussed concern too. Climate change. An anxiousness was stirring around the legacy left from decisions Adults were making now, and what that would mean for the world they'd inherit.
BOTH tiers of tween feedback informing our #peopleandplanetkind business + brand philosophy.
It's interesting to see what a couple of years progress and a natural disaster (the Australian bushfires being all consuming in every sense of the word) can do to bring a stirring anxiousness into the foreground.
This Aussie Summer, Melbourne SQUAD member Anya took to the streets over the holidays for a current read on tween sentiment. What brings them joy. What doesn't.
It is worth noting that at the point in time these interviews were taken COVID-19's pandemic status had not yet been determined. It is in some senses, useful to see the prevailing tween sentiment divorced from the pandemic though. And we suggest this article be viewed through that lens.
Anya we love these interviews. Thanks to all involved. U R #legends 👊
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Audrey,10:
What are some of your hobbies?
I love craft, netball, cooking, art and travelling.
As a tween in 2020, what day to day issues do you face?
One thing that I find hard is learning how to manage social media. We learn about cyber safety at my school, and my parents have also taught me how to be safe, but sometimes it’s hard to stick to the rules and be part of what my friends are doing, but also try to be independent and make my own decisions.
What are some global issues that matter to you?
Climate change, because the sea levels are rising and it’s affecting the environment and animals. The Australian bushfires because it’s devastating watching the people, animals and environment being destroyed by them. Also, pollution is a very big issue because every year it increases.
What do you think can be done about these issues?
The government could be doing more to reduce pollution from big companies. I don’t think they take pollution seriously enough. I also think the government wasn’t properly prepared for the bushfire season, so they have to do better next time.
What can you do personally to help resolve these issues?
Use less electricity, e.g. turn off lights when you exit the room. Drive your car less so that the pollution levels reduce. Use more containers instead of buying things in packaging. Recycle more things instead of putting everything in the rubbish bin.
What makes you happy?
World peace.
Gabby,11
What are some of your hobbies?
I love playing netball, tennis and soccer. I also like going to the movies and hanging out with family and friends.
As a tween in 2020, what day to day issues do you face?
I sometimes get upset or anxious when I mess up or do not do well at school or tennis. Luckily for me I don’t have many issues.
What are some global issues that matter to you?
Issues globally are climate change and countries who threaten to go to war.
What do you think can be done about these issues?
I think Politicians should take climate change more seriously and make a bigger effort to lower their country’s emissions.
What can you personally do about these issues?
We can walk or ride our bikes/scooters when possible. We can use less power and recycle more. We can buy less clothes or buy second-hand clothes so less goes into landfill.
What makes you happy?
Being with my friends and family
Sophie,11
What are some of your hobbies?
I love dance and netball and spending time with my family and friends.
As a tween in 2020, what day to day issues do you face?
I think some day to day issues I face is keeping up with school work. In year 5 we bring in iPads which is a lot of responsibility. We have to make sure every day that we charge them, keep them safe and secure, and complete all our tasks sensibly. Then there is after school activities to go to as well.
What are some global issues that matter to you?
Definitely the Australian bushfires because they are just destroying Australia. So many people have lost their homes and loved ones. And so many animals have died, it’s so sad.
What do you think can be done about these issues?
Some things we can do as Australians is help as much as we can. Every dollar counts so donate as much as you can. You could also help animals by donating to organisations, or volunteering your time.
What can you personally do about these issues?
Be more careful about our water usage because the dams are drying out and it’s gotten so bad that some states are on water restrictions. How can we put out fires if we don’t have enough water?
What makes you happy?
My friends, family and pet rabbits and cats.
Luke,12
What are some of your hobbies/interests?
I really like playing PlayStation with my friends after school. On the weekends I play cricket or soccer, or go places with my family.
What do you think are the big issues of today in the tween world?
Social Media. It’s hard not to have my own phone because all my friends have one, and they can talk to each other on Instagram or message each other, but I can’t join in. My parents said I can have a phone once I get to high school, which is next year.
What are some of the global issues that matter to you?
I sometimes worry about the environment, I hear people talk on the news about the planet warming up and how we are not taking proper care of it.
What do you think can be done about these issues?
The government should make a law that people have to recycle, and not waste water or electricity. I don’t think the Government is doing a proper job of looking for cleaner energy sources.
What can you personally do about these issues?
We have learnt about recycling and reducing waste at school. I showed my parents how important it is and now we do a much better job of it at home. I also try not to waste electricity, and I have shorter showers than I used to.
What makes you happy?
Being with my friends, playing with my puppy, going to cafes with my family, and when my team wins a game of cricket or soccer.
