MEDIA BYTES
By Rev. Marty Levesque
GENERATION ALPHA, born after 2010, is growing up in a world fundamentally shaped by digital technology.
A recent glimpse into their career aspirations reveals a striking reality: their dreams are increasingly intertwined with the online world. When asked what they want to be when they grow up, the top answers aren't solely traditional roles; topping the list are YouTuber (32%) and TikTok creator (21%). Combined, over half aspire to roles defined by online content creation and social media platforms.
Other digital-centric careers like mobile app/video game developer (19%) and professional online streamer (15%) also feature prominently, alongside more traditional aspirations like doctor/nurse (20%) and teacher (14%). Even roles like artist, musician, and entrepreneur are now heavily reliant on digital platforms for visibility and success.
What does this mean for the church?
It signals an urgent need to embrace social media not just as a communication tool, but as a primary space for connection, community, and outreach. If the future generation dreams of creating content and building communities on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, the church must be present and active in those same spaces. It's the modern equivalent of setting up in the town square; it's meeting people where they naturally gather, learn, and aspire. Ignoring these platforms means potentially missing a vast opportunity to connect with Gen Alpha on their terms.
The desire to be a YouTuber or TikTok creator reveals a value placed on visual storytelling, authenticity, short-form communication, community building, and creative expression. Churches can learn from this. Effective engagement won't come from simply broadcasting services, but by creating content that resonates with these values – content that is engaging, relatable, offers value, and fosters genuine interaction.
As Gen Alpha navigates the complexities of the online world, the church has a role to play in modelling positive, ethical, and faith-filled digital citizenship. By actively participating and creating meaningful content, churches can demonstrate how faith intersects with online life, offering guidance and a spiritual anchor in the digital realm.
These aspirations hint at future ministry roles. Imagine church tech teams led by former aspiring game developers, or online ministry programs spearheaded by those skilled in video creation and streaming.
The career dreams of Generation Alpha are a clear indicator of where their attention and energy are focused. For the church to continue its mission of outreach and discipleship with this emerging generation, a robust, authentic, and engaging social media presence isn't just helpful – it's essential. It's time to log in and meet the future, right where they are.
Rev. Marty Levesque is the rector of All Saints’ in Waterloo. He served as diocesan social media officer.