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Ella Robertson of One Young World on Combating Slacktivism and Effective Advocacy

 In today’s digitally-driven world, the phenomenon of slacktivism has become a significant
concern for genuine advocates. Ella Robertson, the managing director of One Young World, is vocal about the need to shift from superficial online gestures to
more effective, tangible actions. 

Slacktivism, often characterized by online activities such as sharing posts or hashtags without
substantive follow-up, can create a misleading sense of accomplishment.
“When you share a post on Instagram, it may feel satisfying, but it rarely
translates into real-world change,” argues Robertson. She emphasizes that
while digital platforms are useful for raising awareness, they should not be
the endpoint of activism. 

Instead, Ella Robertson urges activists to engage with those who hold differing views.
“It’s crucial to have conversations with people who don’t necessarily
share your perspective,” she asserts. This approach can lead to more
inclusive and impactful movements. According to Robertson, the strength of any
advocacy effort lies in its diversity, encompassing various races, genders, and
socio-economic backgrounds. 

In her role at One Young World, Robertson has seen firsthand how inclusive dialogues can bridge
divides. The organization, known for its global summits, brings together young
leaders from around the world to discuss pressing issues and develop actionable solutions. 

Robertson also advises activists to be strategic about disruption. Ella Robertson
points out that actions aimed solely at gaining attention can backfire.
“Disruption has its place, but it should be used judiciously,” she
notes. Actions that alienate potential allies or cause unnecessary controversy
can undermine the movement’s goals. 

Ella Robertson’s insights encapsulate a balanced approach to modern activism. By focusing on
meaningful engagement and strategic actions, she believes that movements can
achieve lasting change. One Young World continues to serve as a platform for
young leaders to learn, collaborate, and take substantive steps toward a better
future. Refer to this article for additional information. 

  

Learn more about Robertson on https://medium.com/@EllaRobertson/about