Tom Novak is a senior behavioral analyst at Canvas8. After completing his second master's degree in cultural sociology at LSE, he was drawn to cultural insight. Tom has conducted qualitative and ethnographic research from the plazas of Santiago to Coventry's suburbs. In his spare time, he can be seen rowing down the Thames or world-building around feminist science fiction.


Ideological binaries are shifting, and the established landscape of polarisation is on the move. For example, “Trump complicates [traditional ideas that older voters lean more Conservative] by saying things that are crazy by the measure of traditional Conservatism,” 

, the Thomas Brackett Reed professor of government at Bowdoin College. Indeed, Pew Research Center’s 

 indicates that Trump won people ages 65 and older by about four points, which is considered just a slight advantage. On the other hand, 

 are significantly less patriotic than their older counterparts and are distrustful of elites and concentrated power. This is connected to recent 

 findings that the vision of America as a land of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all is being challenged as young people from all ideological backgrounds believe the 

 is dying. Somewhat surprisingly, Gallup has uncovered a 

, with younger women trending towards liberal positions and younger men towards conservatism, calling for a growing need for healthy and practical political dialogue.

engine of political battle and social change

. When Joe Biden's presidential campaign was officially 

 about Biden's handling of the war in Gaza. Indeed, the app has galvanised a new wave of 

, with many Gen Z creators perceiving the 

 as an attempt to censor younger generations. Over in India, the government is using 

 to disrupt farmers' protests ahead of the 2024 elections. In 

, Gen Zers remain active on Twitter, utilising its features for news and engagement in sociopolitical conversations. In 2022, 

 of young Indonesians saw social media as their primary source of information, with accounts like 

 actively engaging younger audiences through political education and commentary.

New voices are emerging in the online space to reflect people’s interests, inclinations, and guilty pleasures – this includes rage-bait and contrarian arguments. For example, 

 has built a significant fanbase with her divisive antifeminist content. 

 like Glenn Greenwald, Joe Rogan, and Matt Taibbi challenge established narratives about American foreign policy, free speech, cancel culture, COVID-19, and gender and trans debates. Research conducted by Canvas8 in 2023 shows that 73% of US Gen Yers agree they like to look for alternative sources of information instead of mainstream ones. Independent presidential candidate 

unifying message on American civic possibilities are resonating with different segments of the US public. Elsewhere, 

 uses engaging videos and social media posts on theology and lifestyle to connect with and inspire a large audience of young Americans.

more likely to hold a liberal worldview than men of the same age

Media personalities like Glenn Greenwald, Joe Rogan, and Matt Taibbi are appealing to more and more Americans who are demanding honest debates around controversial topics. What does this interest in narratives beyond partisan orthodoxies reveal about people’s attitudes to the news landscape?

The rise of politically heterodox content in the US

From fuelling global protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death to driving boycotts against ‘woke’ brands, the impact of social media on grassroots movements has become impossible to ignore. Why are these channels so valued by activists? And how can brands navigate through contentious issues?

How social media became an engine for change

Despite facing various controversies, Southeast Asian Gen Zers remain active on Twitter, now known as X, utilising its features for news and video discovery. The online platform offers brands the opportunity to engage in sociopolitical conversations and tap into fandom subcultures.

How Twitter and X changed ads and news for Gen Z in Southeast Asia

In the AI arms race, Google has a powerful advantage – its operating system is used by billions of people worldwide. Their Gemini app has been made available in the UK, making it easy for Britons to access the AI chatbot on the go. This represents an exciting new era for the digital assistant.

How Google’s Gemini AI model is assisting Britons 

Dove may be known for its focus on doing good for women, but Greenpeace is drawing attention to its role in damaging the planet through plastic pollution. With people cynical about eco efforts, they're looking to businesses to hold themselves, and each other, to account.

Greenpeace campaign targets greenwashing from Dove

Rotterdam Urban Winery is turning surplus table grapes into wine, addressing food waste and supply chain issues and appealing to eco-conscious wine sippers. This mirrors a trend of eco-driven innovations in alcohol but only acts as a part of a holistic approach to sustainable drinking experiences.

Rotterdam Urban Winery transforms grape waste into wine

Political and economic turmoil driven by armed conflicts across the world has forced crowds of people to leave their home countries. But instead of showing sympathy for these people, the world has largely met them with the rise of conservative politics hostile to immigration.

Germany tightens its grip on border control

K-food is making its mark on Japan’s food market with the growth of quick-fix frozen Korean-style meals. People are increasingly looking for authentic global food experiences and convenience, and they are taking the lead from wider cultural phenomena to find inspiration.

Korea's cultural influence in Japan expands to food

Zara has announced plans to launch its pre-owned platform in the US after running in 16 European countries. As the shift towards circularity gains traction, people expect brands to support their eco-values by encouraging convenient ways to repair, reuse, and extend the life cycle of garments.

Zara bolsters eco-efforts with pre-owned expansion

A Leeds-based band have taken home this year’s Mercury Prize, citing regional funding as a key driver in their success. With the creative industries in flux, brands can forge authentic connections with local creative communities by helping fill the gap in material support.

Mercury Prize win highlights gap in creative funding

After AI-generated images of Taylor Swift supporting Donald Trump swirled the web, the singer officially announced her endorsement of Kamala Harris and condemned the spread of misinformation. As the political stakes get higher, people are increasingly expecting celebrities to do their part.

Taylor Swift declares support for Kamala Harris

The Juggernaut is transforming media by focusing on South Asian narratives often overlooked by mainstream outlets. Despite challenges in funding, the platform's subscriber-supported content is striking a chord with young desis who are eager to invest in narratives that truly resonate with them.

Why The Juggernaut explores South Asian identity in US media

Renault has released the R17, a concept electric vehicle based on the 1971 Renault 17. With EV adoption facing challenges around the world, a number of auto manufacturers are blending nostalgia and sustainability by bringing retro-inspired designs to the electric vehicle market.

Renault concept EV blends nostalgia and sustainability

Audio manufacturers Bang & Olufsen have released a line of future-proof headphones with modular components designed for easy repair and replacement. As eco-concerns converge with more critical spending habits, perspectives on sustainability are shifting to centre durability and slower consumption

Bang & Olufsen centre durability with modular headphones

A report has found that a major scheme helping people in England connect with nature resulted in big improvements in mental health. With a mental health crisis across the UK, there is a need to support people in getting access to care, and connecting to nature is one avenue to help.

Report shows nature prescriptions improve mental health

Tech startup Sunamp’s first product, a compact heat battery for domestic hot water, is designed for half of the population who can’t afford the space for a hot water tank. Using excess renewable power, Sunamp’s thermal batteries offer a more accessible energy solution for shrinking households.

Sunamp supplies space-saving renewable energy

Video games are becoming a strategic tool in elections, with figures like Donald Trump using gaming spaces to engage voters. Despite some controversy, this shift signifies that diverse digital platforms, including games, could significantly shape future election strategies and voter engagement.

Video games emerge as key tool in election strategies

A New York-based film festival is screening a series of hyperlocal stories in a bid to burst the algorithm bubble. Amid rising concern about the cultural and political impact of personalized feeds, the event aims to combat digital division by platforming underrepresented perspectives.

Brooklyn film festival combats digital divisiveness

A significant amount of American LGBTQ+ students attend schools with policies that actively discriminate against them, according to a new study. Despite growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ lifestyles, many young people still face official discrimination as culture war issues continue to deepen.

LGBTQ+ students face increasing discrimination at school

The charitable organization has commenced its annual Game to Change the World campaign aimed at Gen Alpha fundraisers. Gaming has become a pivotal tool in Gen Alpha’s sense-making practices, and young audiences will be expecting more than just immersion when it comes to virtual activations.

Comic Relief US nurtures Gen Alpha changemakers

The social enterprise Plate It Forward brings community to the kitchen by providing a safe working space for some of Australia’s marginalised individuals. Dining there means donating a meal to someone in need, touching on Australians’ core values and connecting with them beyond just a transaction.

Why Plate It Forward serves expat cuisine for an Aussie cause

Brazil has blocked access to social media platform X after Elon Musk failed to meet legal requirements, furthering debates over free speech and misinformation. While many users have migrated to alternatives like Threads and Bluesky, the ban has left Brazilians feeling disconnected.

Brazilians feel disconnected following X blockade

Net-A-Porter x King's Foundation champions local craftsmanship and sustainability with community training programs for new talent. The initiative highlights how luxury brands can build deeper connections with their audiences while fostering local talent and building long-lasting, enduring value.

Net-A-Porter spotlights local craft and community values

IKEA has launched a peer-to-peer marketplace in Madrid to help customers sell their unwanted furniture directly to others. As the shift towards circularity gains momentum, brands that adopt eco-driven business models can extend their lifespan and deepen consumer trust and long-lasting loyalty.

IKEA trials peer-to-peer marketplace in circularity push

As the realities of climate change start to threaten the production of raw ingredients, businesses are having to pioneer adaptable strategies to meet demand. Production in the cocoa industry is especially high stakes. Innovation is becoming a core strategy to build trust and solve supply challenges.

Cocoa industry uses sustainable solutions to build trust

Nintendo's success is rooted in its ability to evoke nostalgia, leverage IP, and build hype. By strategically tapping into its iconic franchises, collaborating with brands, and focusing on quality, Nintendo has cultivated a loyal fanbase and positioned itself as a leading player in gaming.

How Nintendo became a go-to brand for UK gamers

In a stagnating toy market, LEGO has managed to remain relevant in modern times. Enjoyed by both adults and kids alike, the beloved bricks demonstrate how to engage cross-generational fans across multiple platforms through contemporary collaborations and consumer co-creation.

How LEGO engineered enduring appeal in the digital era

Software with voice input, accessible on phones, is helping foreign workers at a nursing home in Japan. The tech aims to clear the language barrier and reduce its staff’s workload. As expectations of employers increase, support and upskilling can lead to greater satisfaction and retention of staff.

Tech supports foreign staff in Japanese nursing home

Chinese youth are showing renewed interest in traditional culture and spirituality in an attempt to regain a sense of stability. As discussions around death become gradually more open, funeral handcrafts are providing a meaningful way for Gen Zers in China to connect with heritage.

Chinese Gen Z rediscover traditional funeral art

Will a new political order impact civic optimism? How will AI influence climate action, and will AI's environmental impact accelerate experiences of extreme weather? And how will individualism change expectations of ESG? We speak to three experts about society, politics, and the environment in 2025.

2025 Expert Outlook on Citizenship

As the saying goes, you’re never too old for Disney – but Hong Kong Disneyland also believes you’re never too young to make a difference. The park’s environmental efforts blend signature storytelling with best practices to teach kids how and why they should be climate warriors.

How Hong Kong Disneyland makes climate talk magical

Fashion rental platform Rent The Runway is at the forefront of this sector’s revival, thanks to an influx of Gen Y and Z intrigue, smart use of AI, and a wildly successful thread of IRL events. So, what can brands learn from this thriving subsector of sustainable fashion?

How Rent The Runway renews fashionistas' eco values

Trapstar London emphasises the importance of cultural relevance and giving back to its audience, cementing itself as a key player in the global streetwear space that has a loyal following online and offline. What does its dominance say about the value of community connection and engagement?

Why Trapstar London builds on community and culture

eBay is bringing secondhand items to the runway with the launch of its first-ever Pre-Loved Fashion Week. As younger generations continue to turn to circular fashion to redefine luxury norms, brands can stand out by creating convenient and accessible ways for people to update their wardrobes.

eBay’s Pre-Loved Fashion Week boosts circular economy

Multi-generational dance parties are growing in number on the streets of New York, offering a much-needed source of release for locals, young and old. As people navigate the myriad stressors of modern life, they’re yearning for small moments of collective joy to cut through the gloom.

New Yorkers find release in inclusive dance parties

Amid a nationwide tendency for long work weeks and rigid hierarchies, Suntory stands out in Japan for all the right reasons. The worldwide beverage giant has an employee-first philosophy, treating mistakes as learning opportunities, aligning with Japanese employees’ desire for psychological safety.

How Suntory is helping Japanese people unlearn perfectionism

Bookshop.org has launched a buy-back scheme, offering readers website credit in exchange for used books. As conscious shoppers look to balance ethical consumption with time constraints and financial strain, the move helps bridge the value-action gap by making sustainability a more convenient option.

Bookshop.org is incentivising ethical consumption 

A group of Brooklyn mothers have forged a supportive network at the local skate park, taking a more inclusive approach to the sport. Born of desires to escape responsibility and build community, the grassroots group represents a wider movement to redefine the cultural narrative around motherhood.

Skateboarding offers community for New York moms

Nearly half of American adults say they’re planning to leave their jobs next year, with Gen Z respondents leading this trend. Disillusioned by traditional corporate culture, young workers are seeking more fulfilling ways to work and pioneering a shift in attitudes towards employment more broadly.

US Gen Zers are planning mass resignation

Newless is a bespoke upcycling service in the UK, aiming to transform pre-loved garments into custom, fashion-forward pieces. As people seek ways to reduce their environmental impact, there is a strong desire for products that align with these values while still offering individuality and style.

Custom upcycled service courts eco-ambitious fashionistas

The NFL has kicked off the 2024 season with a campaign that positions football as a force of unity. The campaign shows how DE&I has become baked into the brand’s DNA and looks to demonstrate how narratives of inclusivity can actually help drive resonance in these polarizing times.

NFL ushers in football season with DE&I-focused ad

In the age of pervasive social media, platforms like TikTok and YouTube become critical to preserving indigenous cultures and passing them on to younger generations. However, rigid censorship rules often impede this work, which calls for a designated approach to such content on these platforms.

Online censorship risks loss of Indigenous cultures

TikTok creators are taking part in debates on the platform in the run-up to the US presidential election. These ‘political battlers’ are building new modes for political engagement and making up to $7000 a month through virtual gifts, but concerns remain about moderation and misinformation.

'Political battlers’ mix democracy with entertainment

How are UK cities engaging their inhabitants in city life? Where do city dwellers go for fun, and to spend their money? And what challenges are people in cities facing in 2024? This Urban Cultural Snapshot blends data and expert insight to illuminate contemporary behaviours in UK cities.

A Cultural Snapshot of the urban UK 2024 - 2025

Why are rural Britons more concerned with climate change? How is a shift in political leadership impacting rural communities? Why is there renewed invest in localism? This snapshot explores the behavioural shifts and norms of those living in rural communities up and down the UK in 2024.

A Cultural Snapshot of the rural UK 2024 - 2025

UK-based refugee charity, Refugease, has launched a gripping campaign that simulates the dangerous boat crossings made by refugees every day. The campaign not only highlights the power of representing real stories, but uses emotionally captivating immersive mediums to draw viewers in.

Immersive campaign spotlights the reality of refugee journeys

As people begin to embrace a more experimental approach to sustainable solutions, designer Jinghan Li is pioneering a new approach to both waste and industry collaboration. Her Project FabriCandy initiative turns waste textiles into edible treats and attempts to show a new way of creating food.

Designer sustainably turns waste fabric into safe sweets

The origin story of an Irish-language rap group has proven a surprise hit at the box office and is driving renewed interest in the local language. As people seek to reclaim heritage through a contemporary lens, demand is growing for diverse cultural identities to be reflected within the mainstream.

'Kneecap' film champions Irish language on a global stage

China’s first AAA level game, Black Myth: Wukong, represents a major breakthrough of the country’s game industry and its global influence. The game offers a fresh perspective on a classical story, appealing to domestic and international players by tapping into the country's rich cultural heritage.

'Black Myth: Wukong' sees China's gaming influence grow

The UK government has announced plans to treat misogyny as extremism. The rise of anti-feminist and misogynistic content online has become a worrying global trend, highlighting the need to challenge misogynistic viewpoints and counter extremism against women in online communities.

UK government commits to treating misogyny as extremism

Modern mortuaries are getting a revamp, using minimalist millennial aesthetics to make death feel more familiar. As spirituality becomes more mainstream and attitudes towards death change, Gen Y are moving to shake up old traditions, even in the most austere environments.

Exit Here is changing funeral planning for Gen Y 

Melbourne has become the latest major city to ban e-scooters, citing frequent resident complaints about safety and cleanliness as reasons. Despite the controversy, there's still a need for micromobility solutions and infrastructure that make sense for city life. 

Tensions rise between mobility hackers and city halls

BikeStormz 2024 saw thousands take to the streets of London, with the organisers aiming to curb knife crime by encouraging young people to join the cycling community. The movement points to an opportunity for charities and activist groups to support change through celebratory community culture.

BikeStormz uses Bikelife culture to engage youth activism

India faces a severe water crisis, with many people lacking clean drinking water. Water utility company Uravu offers a sustainable solution through water-from-air technology. The brand’s installed modular systems and water bottles urge Indians to reduce reliance on erratic groundwater sources.

Why Uravu designs a futuristic water system for Indians

Waymo has announced plans to begin testing fully autonomous vehicles on freeways in San Francisco in August of 2024, pointing to a growing normalization of driverless cars. As more driverless vehicles begin to fill roads, it remains to be seen whether more drivers will adopt the technology.

Waymo expands driverless cars to San Fran freeways

Apple's new short film, The Relay, showcases athletes of all abilities competing side by side, with disabled athletes using accessibility features to assist in their preparation. The film highlights elite athleticism and the importance of inclusive, convenient technology.

Apple showcases athletic diversity in latest campaign

From coconut trees to Venn diagrams, Kamala Harris is leading a campaign that’s just ‘so quirky.’ With an official blessing as a Brat candidate, her eccentric anecdotes and social media presence target young US voters who want unfiltered and nuanced relationships with public figures.

How Kamala Harris’s comms strategy targets young voters

NIU, a Chinese luxe e-scooter brand, is speeding ahead of the market with its award-winning designs. With e-scooters becoming popular to both the eco- and cost-conscious, NIU proves that safety and the ability to customise are key in courting new scooter fans – especially Gen Z.

How NIU scooters drive personalised eco-travel in China

Modern homesteading has entered the public consciousness, and a budding community of young male creators is building an online niche around their efforts to live off the land. With ongoing systemic failures driving down faith in institutions, interest is growing in more self-sufficient lifestyles.

Off-the-grid homesteaders promote autonomous living

The singer’s music video is facing potential legal action for possible damage to the protected dunes of S’Espalmador in Spain. With ongoing shifts in artist-fan relationships, people are expecting their favourite artists to use their platform for social and environmental good.

Katy Perry’s comeback further mired by eco legal action

Clean Beauty Action Network (CBAN) has issued an open letter to the FDA calling for a ban on toxic products in hair relaxers. As people adopt a holistic approach to hair care routines, they want brands to be transparent about product materials and create products made with their needs in mind.

Toxic materials in hair relaxer prompts urgent action

AI is supercharging the desire for personalised experiences, but its environmental toll is massive. As energy demands skyrocket, the pressure is on for convenience-focused brands to innovate sustainably or risk falling behind. But how can they balance cutting-edge AI with eco-friendly practices?

Can convenience and sustainability coexist in the age of AI?

In an era when Japanese shoppers are losing interest in the written word, Tsutaya is reimagining ways to bring them back to bookstores. The famous chain offers a range of literature, music, film, and other artefacts, often not found anywhere else, in a space built for community and self-expression.

How Tsutaya Bookstore reinvents the literary retail space

Spotify has launched a new campaign showcasing the universal appeal of music across age groups. The campaign challenges generational divides and highlights how musical tastes transcend age, promoting understanding and connection between generations when they're otherwise increasingly divided.


Spotify challenges generation gap in new campaign

Sinéad O’Dwyer’s SS25 showcase at Copenhagen Fashion Week has made headlines for its boundary-pushing commitment to equity on the runway. As inclusion efforts seem to have taken a backseat in the fashion world, the brand offers a blueprint on how to resonate with representation-hungry customers.

Sinéad O’Dwyer moves the needle on inclusive fashion

Breast Cancer Now has launched a new campaign drawing attention to difficult conversations. Inspired by real people living with breast cancer and their stories, the campaign looks to highlight their struggles and help them find the words to express what they are going through.

Breast cancer film exposes patients' hidden struggles

In 2024, Australians will navigate the balance between their deeply held values and economic realities. While their decisions mirror their desire for societal change, the cost of living crisis has shifted priorities. How do these dual realities shape people’s lives and decisions amid trying times?

A Cultural Snapshot of Australia: 2024

For almost 100 years, it seems the Year of the Tiger has reigned. In a masterclass of longevity and creativity, brands might learn valuable lessons from the roaring Singaporean beer brand about catering to the ever-evolving tastes, values, and excitement of Southeast Asia.

How Tiger Beer creates fresh buzz among SEA drinkers

Citizenship

People’s engagement with politics is increasingly shaped by digital tools and online environments

Political polarisation is heating up globally, especially in the lead-up to several significant elections worldwide. A generation of new tools is spawning alternative methods of delivering political messaging, further entrenching but also confusing a divided political landscape.