Brave > Bold

For young people in India, being bold just for the sake of is seen as reckless, or worse – gimmicky. Being bold is still necessary. But when you’re bold with a purpose? That’s bravery. Today’s youth respect a bold attitude, but with a sense of larger purpose.

Bravery comes in many shapes and sizes. They appreciate stories of intense courage and also laud small, everyday acts of bravery. Posting a piece of unconventional content on their social media pages is brave. So is speaking up against a comment or post that they strongly disagree with.

• 85% believe that everyone has the right to their own opinions and beliefs
• 79% are confident about debating issues with friends
• 60% will voice their opinion even if they’re politically incorrect
• 60% will voice their opinion even if someone close to them dislikes them for it
• 60% feel powerful because they have the ability to say/post/tweet anything online

Inspired by Courage

Moms and dads are the most common heroes for India’s youth. Girls and younger teens are much more inspired by their mothers; boys look up to both parents equally. Those at the young end of the youth demographic have particular admiration for public figures and celebrities.

• 84% say inspiration gives them the courage to make difficult life decisions
• 82% actively seek out inspiration in their lives

These insights are part of The Many Me Project, a six-month interactive investigation of 11,000 people ages 13 to 25 across India.