Heartbreak, Hope, and the call to build a better future

Last Wednesday, many of us woke up heartbroken. Watching the election results, I felt the same wave of devastation that I experienced after the UK voted to leave and again when Trump was elected.

It’s a familiar grief for what it means to witness an embrace of division, exclusion, and a rejection of a more inclusive future. It’s about the missed opportunity to choose freedom, hope, and unity over fear and separation. And it’s a reminder that for far too many, belonging and equality remain ideals, not guarantees.

But this heartbreak isn’t the end of the story.

In her concession speech, Kamala Harris spoke directly to young people, the change-makers of today and tomorrow: “Do not despair; do not be overwhelmed. Do not throw up your hands when it is time to roll up your sleeves.” Her words remind us that our pain has a purpose if we choose to channel it into something bigger. This is a call to action, not just for our own generation but for the ones to come. We’re building a world they’ll inherit, and we can’t leave them a legacy of apathy and acceptance of hate.

The Power of Small Actions

Sometimes, when we look at the sheer scale of the world’s issues, it’s easy to feel paralysed. We think, “What difference can I make?” But the truth is, change often begins with small, consistent actions in our everyday spaces. True, sweeping change requires structural shifts, but cultural shifts start with the individuals who create culture. People like you and me.

Each of us have the power to influence our communities, workplaces, and social circles in meaningful ways. Here are some small but impactful ways you can make a difference:

Speak up against injustice.
Speak up if you witness someone receiving unfair treatment or exclusion. Kamala’s words remind us that there’s power in not throwing up our hands. Silence is often seen as complicity, but speaking up, however awkward or uncomfortable, can make someone feel seen and valued. Start by checking in with a colleague who may feel isolated or giving your support when you witness discrimination.

Educate yourself and others.
Being informed is one of the most powerful ways to advocate for change. Take time to read up on the issues that impact marginalised communities and understand why last week's election result was so painful for so many. Use your voice and platforms to spread awareness, whether it’s about systemic biases, historical inequalities, or current events like this that shape people’s lives today. Awareness leads to empathy, and empathy often leads to action.

Vote and encourage others to do the same.
Elections may feel disheartening, but they’re one of the most tangible ways we can influence the future. Encourage those around you to vote and make informed choices. Local elections, in particular, have a profound impact on issues like education, housing, and policing, which directly affect marginalised communities.

Show compassion and inclusive thinking in everyday interactions.
Sometimes, the most powerful impact we can have is in our one-on-one interactions. Whether it’s through active listening, learning about another person’s culture, or simply reaching out to make sure someone feels seen, these moments matter. Small acts of kindness and solidarity are the building blocks of inclusive communities.

Imagining the future: a world where everyone belongs

The truth is, these “small” actions aren’t small at all. Every time you choose to stand up, speak out, or create space for someone else, you’re challenging the status quo. You’re saying, “I refuse to accept a world where some people are seen as less deserving of respect, opportunity, or dignity.” This is what it means to build a legacy that future generations can be proud of.

When we imagine the future, what do we see? For me, it’s a world where young people grow up knowing that they belong, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or background. A world where compassion is the norm and everyone has a seat at the table. But this isn’t something we achieve by waiting for the right leaders or perfect circumstances. It’s something we create through our daily choices, actions, and words.

Our moment to act

If you’re feeling heartbreak right now, know that you’re not alone. But let’s remember: heartbreak can be a powerful catalyst. It’s time to roll up our sleeves, to take this pain and transform it into purpose. Each small action we take is a step toward the world we want to build, not just for ourselves but for the generations that will come after us.

So, here’s my challenge to you: today, take one small step. Reach out, speak up, or simply learn more about the issues facing marginalised groups. Commit to being the change in the spaces you occupy. Let’s build a world that won’t just bring pride, but that will be a beacon of hope, unity, and true belonging for everyone.

The marathon toward justice and inclusion continues, and it needs every one of us in the race. Let’s keep running side by side toward a future that embraces us all. 

#InclusionStartsHere #StandTogether #BuildingTheFuture