As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

The self-made mythos is as powerful as ever, despite societal upheaval testing its limits. Even mundane pastimes have been monetised as people cash in on massive audiences and leave no niche unexplored. Selling out is no longer a source of embarrassment, it’s just what makes the world go round.

Amid conversations of AI art, The Local Collective cuts through the noise by spotlighting the charm of hand-made crafts and foregrounding sentimentality during the festive season. The involvement of generative AI in creative processes is causing debate, placing an enhanced value on the human touch.

When the world around them seemed chaotic and unpredictable, Gen Zers turned to tactile pastimes such as pottery and craft culture. As this digitally-native generation embraces mindful hobbies that champion joy and combat perfection fatigue, what does this say about the future of wholesome hobbies?

How are Gen Zers shaking up the workplace? What career opportunities and threats does AI present? How are virtual communities bridging opportunity gaps? In this part of the 2024 Expert Outlook, we speak to three experts about how companies can attract and retain employees amid widespread disruption.

Parents and students are split when it comes to approaching careers, with parents favouring apprenticeships and students preferring university. More and more, people are rethinking their faith in academia and higher education, although questions remain about the benefits of alternative pathways.