Communication Gap Between Gen Z and Parents Part Two
Pakisatn · Virtual · GHL facilitated
The Global Human Library hosted a session on “Communication Gap Between Gen Z and Parents” to explore the challenges that affect communication and mutual understanding between younger and older generations.
The session brought together 13 active participants who shared their experiences, perspectives, and values from different age groups. Through an open and respectful dialogue, participants discussed common communication barriers, differences in expectations, generational misunderstandings, and practical ways to bridge the gap between parents and younger generations.
The discussion focused on how empathy, active listening, mutual respect, and a better understanding of each generation’s experiences can strengthen family relationships and encourage meaningful conversations.
Participants also reflected on the role of educational institutions in promoting intergenerational understanding and constructive communication. The initiative welcomes engagement and collaboration with institutions including Government College University Lahore, the University of the Punjab, the University of Lahore, and other educational institutions to encourage dialogue, shared learning, and positive social change.
Through this initiative, the Global Human Library aims to create a platform where different generations can share their experiences, understand one another’s perspectives, and work together towards bridging the communication gap between Gen Z and parents.
Organised by: Global Human Library
Topic: Communication Gap Between Gen Z and Parents
Participation: 13 active participants
Format: Interactive discussion and experience-sharing session
Ms. Irfana Shahid, Principal, KIPS Wapda Town Girls Campus
Ms. Irfana Shahid reflected on the role of teachers as guides who shape our direction in life. From her teacher, Syed Rizvi Vasti, she learned that setbacks are part of the journey and that resilience and mindset determine how we rise and move forward. Her mother taught her that every problem has multiple solutions and that perseverance means exploring alternatives rather than giving up.
Key Learning: Resilience, a positive mindset, and solution-oriented thinking empower us to overcome challenges and continue growing.
Sir Kashif Zaidi, Principal, The Trust School
Sir reflected on the profound influence of teachers, describing both mothers and teachers as pillars of nurturing, guidance, and selfless giving. He shared how Sir Sohail Akhtar at Punjab University helped him overcome shyness, discover his confidence, and find the power of his own voice. Witnessing his strict father’s deep respect for his chemistry teacher became a defining inspiration for his own journey into teaching. Looking towards the next generation, he emphasized that education must go beyond knowledge to teach the art of respectful disagreement, thoughtful expression, and preserving dignity even when opinions differ.
Key Learning: A great teacher does more than educate; they awaken confidence, inspire purpose, nurture respect, and teach us how to express ourselves without losing our humanity.
Ms. Hareem, a teacher from KIPS School Alama Iqbal Town Campus, joined the circle as a Listener as per her convenience.
Mrs. Zahra Khawar, CEO, Paideia Group
She reflected on how meaningful teachers shape not only our knowledge but also our confidence, character, and everyday lives. Ms. Qamar Ara, her mathematics teacher, helped her recognize and improve her weaknesses with kindness, never making her feel inadequate. Ms. Raahat Jabeen strengthened her English-speaking skills, while Ms. Safiya taught her invaluable life lessons in managing a home, nurturing relationships, and fulfilling family responsibilities. Her message to the next generation was a reminder that progress is meaningful only when guided by purpose and direction.
Key Learning: The most impactful teachers correct without hurting, teach beyond textbooks, and help us move forward in life with confidence, wisdom, and purpose.
Sir Ali Nawaz Hashmi, Quality Assurance Officer, Bravian International School
For Sir Ali Nawaz Hashmi, the ultimate example of a teacher is Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), whose teachings guide humanity towards knowledge, compassion, and righteousness. He also remembered Dr. Wasim Shehzad, Director at UVAS, as a true mentor who stood beside him during difficult times, believed in his potential, and encouraged him never to abandon his education despite the struggles he faced.
Key Learning: A true mentor sees potential when we struggle to see it ourselves. Sometimes, a single person's belief in us becomes the strength that keeps us moving forward.
Overall Learning from the Human Circle
Beyond the Classroom: Teachers shape our character, confidence, mindset, and life choices.
Resilience: Setbacks teach us to rise again, explore alternatives, and move forward.
Compassionate Guidance: Constructive feedback builds confidence when offered with empathy and respect.
Lifelong Learning: Parents, teachers, and everyday role models impart lessons that shape how we live.
Values for the Next Generation: Respectful communication, ethical disagreement, and purposeful progress are essential life skills.
Experiences That Helped Us Become More Effective as Individuals
Pakistan · In person · GHL facilitated
Teachers gathered at the GHL office for a special "Human Circle" meeting focused on honoring the teachers' community by reflecting on past mentors whose love, trust and dedication left a lasting impact.
Creating a Safe Environment (Ms. Nadra & Ms. Khalida, Laboratory School, 1978): Provided care, protection and a safe space, demonstrating early practices of emotional learning.
Building Character Through Trust (Ms. Saima, Islamia School, 2005): Demonstrated deep faith in her students by accepting work without strict inspection, fostering honesty and responsibility.
Fostering Unity and Respect (Qari Shafiq Sahib): Taught mutual respect and peer support over rivalry, showing that success comes from helping one another.
Igniting a Passion for Learning (Qari Rasheed Sahib, Islamia School, 1999): Showed contagious dedication and passion that inspired students to love learning.
Treating Teaching as a Sacred Duty (Mr. Aslam, Govt High School Dunyapur, 2000): Taught group theory with deep respect for the profession, viewing the guidance of young minds as a duty beyond just earning a salary.
Instilling Pride in Work (Mrs. Farrukh, Sector F): Encouraged students to take pride and put their heart into their work, elevating teaching to an art form.
The participants concluded that true teaching effectiveness stems from heartfelt care and character, rather than just modern degrees, titles, or certificates.
"Some experiences are not heard, they are felt."
1) The Weight of Words: Physical pain is heavy, but societal judgment and harsh words leave deeper scars. Practice kindness: You never know the battles someone is quietly fighting.
2) Faith in Hardship: Hassam faced his 13 Years journey not as a punishment, but as a profound test of Faith and Courage.
3) A Mother’s Unconditional Love: True love is holding a child's hand through unbearable pain and finding the selfless strength to pray for their ultimate peace and ease.
4) Compassion as a Duty: Empathy isn't optional, it is the greatest gift we can offer families walking through life's hardest moments.
Preserved in Memory: Hassam (13), A WARRIOR whose short life leaves an enduring legacy of Strength, Patience, and Faith.
May Allah grant him the highest rank in Jannat-ul-Firdous and bestow endless Sabr upon his family. Ameen!
Facilitated
