For years, conversations about Generation Z have been dominated by statistics, headlines, and assumptions. They have been labeled resilient, anxious, entitled, innovative, disconnected, and digitally native. Yet despite the countless studies and opinions, one question often goes unanswered: What happens when we simply ask young people to tell their own stories?
That question inspired I Hear You, Gen Z, a feature documentary created by youth advocate Raquel Borras in collaboration with filmmakers Brian Mulvey and Seth Tucker. Scheduled for release in the summer of 2026, the documentary takes a different approach to understanding a generation often defined by others. Rather than offering expert analysis, it hands the microphone directly to Gen Z adults between the ages of 16 and 26, allowing them to share their experiences without interruption or agenda.
Shifting the Conversation
As discussions around mental health, economic uncertainty, education, and social change continue to shape public discourse, young adults are frequently positioned as the subject of the conversation rather than active participants in it.
Borras believes that dynamic needs to change.
Traveling across the United States in an RV, she met with young people from diverse communities to capture honest conversations about the realities they face. The result is a documentary built not around predetermined narratives but around authentic voices sharing perspectives that are too often overlooked.
At a time when organizations, educators, employers, and families are seeking stronger connections with younger generations, the film offers an opportunity to replace assumptions with understanding.
Building Trust Through Conversation
The documentary builds upon years of work dedicated to youth advocacy. Through two podcasts focused on conversations with young people, Borras has conducted more than 160 interviews with members of Generation Z, creating a platform where listening takes priority over advising. Those conversations revealed recurring themes of resilience, uncertainty, hope, and the desire to be understood rather than judged.
That foundation naturally evolved into a larger project. Instead of summarizing what Gen Z thinks, I Hear You, Gen Z allows audiences to hear directly from the individuals living these experiences every day.
A Platform for the Next Generation
At the heart of the project is a simple yet timely message.
“The most powerful thing an adult can do right now is stop talking and start listening. That’s what this film is about.”
As businesses, educators, and community leaders look toward the future, understanding the values and perspectives of the next generation has become more than a cultural conversation. It is a leadership imperative. By creating space for authentic dialogue, I Hear You, Gen Z reminds audiences that meaningful progress begins not with having all the answers, but with asking better questions and genuinely listening to the people who will help shape what comes next.
Learn More
Learn more about Raquel Borras, Raqvision LLC, and the upcoming documentary I Hear You, Gen Z by visiting: https://raq.vision
