In an increasingly uncertain world, character education is key to helping young people build a strong identity and a sense of purpose. A few days ago, a young member of Generation Z went viral on social media after sharing how, despite leading a “normal” life, he was plagued by hopelessness. His testimony, analysed by El Confidencial, reflects the identity crisis and existential void affecting thousands of young people today—his case is not an isolated one. According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, 36% of young people aged 18 to 25 report feeling lonely “almost all the time,” while 44% admit they struggle to find meaning in life.

The challenge of educating in an uncertain world

This is the reality our students are growing up in—a world where depression has become a trending topic on social media, where success seems to be measured by external validation, and where confusion about identity and purpose is more prevalent than ever. However, this crisis is not irreversible. The solution does not lie in empty motivational speeches but in an education that forges character and resilience.

A hope that transforms: A lesson from Tolkien

As Benigno Blanco reminds us in Nueva Revista, J.R.R. Tolkien described in The Lord of the Rings a kind of hope that is not naive, but a virtue forged through struggle. “Hope in Tolkien is not optimism; it is endurance.” It is not about expecting things to turn out well but about choosing to do what is right, even when there are no guarantees.

This is the kind of education our young people need—one that teaches them that life has meaning beyond immediacy and that true strength is not the absence of difficulties but the ability to face them.

Character Education: The answer to the identity crisis

At Fundación Parentes and through our BeLeader programme, we understand that character education is not a philosophical luxury but a pedagogical urgency. The key to tackling this identity crisis does not lie in offering simplistic solutions or empty motivational rhetoric. It is about shaping young people with strong character, self-esteem that does not depend on trends, and a purpose built on solid values.

The Pillars of Our Character Education Approach:

  • Trained Willpower: Knowing what one wants and committing to it.
  • Discernment of Good: Learning to make decisions based on principles, not fleeting emotions.
  • Identity with Purpose: Understanding that each individual is unique but not the only one, and that life gains meaning within a community.
  • Emotional Resilience: Recognising that pain and frustration are part of life and can drive growth.
  • Social Commitment: Forming individuals who think not only about their own success but also about their impact on the world.

Beyond theory: How does the Parentes Educational Network work?

Our educational model integrates these competencies into every aspect of learning. Through leadership programmes, values education, and the development of habits that foster willpower and resilience, we teach young people that they are not defined by their circumstances or momentary emotions, but by their choices.

Take María, 17 years old. For years, she struggled with anxiety and the feeling of never being good enough. After participating in BeLeader, she learned to structure her thoughts, manage her insecurity, and develop a purpose based on her talents and values. Today, not only has she improved academically, but she has also launched a project to help other young people manage their emotions.

Conclusion: Shaping leaders with a cause

We cannot resign ourselves to a narrative where depression and apathy dominate youth. Education has the power to reverse this trend and equip young people with the tools to face life with hope—not as a fleeting emotion, but as a firm decision.

At Fundación Parentes and BeLeader, we believe that character education is the true differentiator of success in life. Because leadership is not just about external achievements but about identity, purpose, and commitment to others. This is the real answer to the identity crisis surrounding us.

If you want to learn more about how we shape leaders with a cause, visit our BeLeader programme and join the educational transformation!