Indian entrepreneur, podcaster, and author Raj Shamani sparked a global conversation when he defended Generation Z at the World Government Summit in Dubai on February 3, 2026. Speaking on stage, he challenged the widespread stereotype that Gen Z is lazy, distracted, or entitled. Instead, he argued: “Gen Z isn’t lazy; they’re allergic to fake work and global leadership is failing to understand young people.”
Shamani highlighted how young people reject meaningless tasks, blind obedience, and outdated systems that prioritize presence over purpose. They value impact, growth, flexibility, respect, and psychological safety, qualities often missing in traditional workplaces. He pointed out that Gen Z doesn’t hate hard work; they hate “fake” or purposeless effort, like endless meetings without results or hierarchies that stifle creativity.
This perspective comes from his interactions with leaders worldwide, who frequently complain about Gen Z’s work ethic. Shamani flips the narrative: the real issue lies with leadership models built for previous generations, not with the youth themselves.
In his podcast Figuring Out and writings (including a Medium post noting only 6% of Gen Z see leadership as their primary career goal), he stresses that this isn’t laziness, it’s evolution. Young people want leaders who inspire, empower, and earn their trust, not those who demand loyalty just because “that’s how it’s always been.”
The statement has divided opinions online. Supporters praise it as honest and relatable, with comments like “Finally someone said it” and “Gen Z wants meaning, not burnout.” Critics argue it overlooks discipline or real-world pressures. Either way, Shamani’s words highlight a growing gap: as Gen Z enters the workforce, old leadership styles risk becoming irrelevant.
His message calls for change, leaders must adapt or be left behind. In a world shaped by transparency and rapid change, understanding Gen Z isn’t optional; it’s essential for the future of work.
