Our generation has been called many things, usually with negative overtones. The “millennial” generation or the “me” generation seem to be most common. The names tend to criticize our perceived entitlement or lack of traditional values.

Although there’s at least some truth to most stereotypes, I believe there’s more to this generation than bad names and negative perceptions.

This generation has the opportunity to create a worldwide dialogue that has never before been seen.

While older generations may only see the noses of “millennials” shoved in their phones and assume they’re being self-absorbed or closed off, a younger generation communicates on a global scale.

For now, it’s true that this communication mostly consists of pointless gifs and selfies with cats. However, we have grown up with the knowledge of how to gather online and share information like never before. As our cares and concerns shift from the useless to the not-so-useless, the world’s biggest problems will seem smaller and smaller.

Imagine a future where citizens of all nations convene to converse about the issues of global climate change, poverty or war crimes. The free flow of communication and information will create a globally conscious force that will change the world.

So much for self-absorption.

This generation does have a long way to go, but with the way technology is going, it’s going to be easier and easier to become aware of the problems across the world. And awareness is the first step toward change.