Tiring of Big Tech, Gen Zers are seeking out alternative platforms. Members of Gen Z Mafia are building the tech world they want to see from the ground up. Since its launch, users include college and high school students, founders, and young employees at tech companies and start-ups.

Whether it’s to earn some extra cash, set up a side hustle, or feel more in control of their employment and income, more independent merchants are selling directly to customers. By cutting out the middleman, ‘social shopping’ lets people more easily and visibly support small businesses with their wallets.

The pandemic has reshaped the way people think about work. They’re moving away from jobs that don’t allow them time for themselves, their family, and hobbies, and instead to ones they’re passionate about. Canvas8 spoke to eight Americans about how the pandemic has changed their career values.

After a year of lockdowns during which many reconsidered what really matters in life, people are increasingly questioning the purpose of work. Bolstered by savings, some are throwing caution to the wind by quitting jobs, switching careers, and generally taking a YOLO approach to both life and work.